CREATING AN IMPROVED SELF

‘New you’…. I don’t love the concept. I mean, we can’t shed our skin can we? Those spots will still be there, no matter how much concealer we plaster on.

I much prefer the notion of ‘improved you’.

So as we step gingerly out of the winter’s oppressive frosts and a little closer to that freshness of spring, here’s something to think about.

If you’re into self-improvement… rather than starting completely from scratch, there are a few simple tricks you can start to implement.

Take it from me, a completely unqualified advice giver, who has learnt through trial, error and sheer determination!

1) Make a list of your strengths

Knowing what your best characteristics are and continuing to develop them keeps your self-esteem up and helps build a solid foundation for the best version of yourself you can be.

2) Make a list of your dark traits

These can be anything from a bad temper, laziness, a tendency not to go to football training…or anything else you have noticed about yourself that you’re less than thrilled with.

Remember this list isn’t about beating yourself up. It’s about what to keep an eye on. Self-awareness is half the battle.

3) Change your behaviour

Two words: baby

steps!

This week did you think before snapping back at someone? Did you set three alarms to beat that laziness and actually get up for your morning run? Well, then congratulate yourself. Keeping a little tally of small wins (a large sheet of butcher’s paper on your bedroom wall is ideal) really helps teach us that we can change our behaviour if we put our mind to it and chip away slowly.