It is the time of the year again when most people start to write and share their new year’s resolution. This blog post is a reflection of my thoughts after reading the original article by Zdravko Cvijetic. Everything is inter-related and provides a holistic approach to personal development.
1. Change the unhealthy lifestyle
Key takeaway: “First you have to take care of your health.”
Healthy diet – Start by making small changes like reducing foods high in sugar etc
Physical activity – Start by slowly increasing duration and/or intensity
Approach:
i. Pen down weekly plans and make sure that they go into the “To-do” lists.
ii. Re-visit the plans to make adjustments when more information is available (through consultation with experts or self-discovery)
2. Change the short-term mindset
Key takeaway: “There is a difference between: ‘Working out to have summer body’ and ‘Working out because that’s who you are.’”
Set a long-term goal and work on short-term habits which contribute to the ultimate goal.
Approach:
i. Similarly, pen down or share the long-term goal with someone and identify short-term activities/targets which lead to achieving that long-term goal.
ii. Re-visit the short-term activities/targets and determine the status towards that long-term goal.
iii. Make the goals easily accessible so that they provide constant reminders to yourself.
3. Change the “Playing Small” mentality
Key takeaway: “If you never try and take great opportunities, or allow your dreams to become realities, you will never realise your true potential.”
Take the first step towards that bold dream you have. Do not be afraid to fail and definitely not be afraid to succeed.
Approach:
i. Keep that dream in a private little corner and share it with people who show great passion towards the same.
ii. If you are bold enough to share it with everyone you meet, be strong and ready to face all sorts of feedback.
iii. It often takes many great people around you to help realise that dream.
4. Change the fixed mindset
Key takeaway: “Who you are today, it’s not who you have to be tomorrow.”
Success is not created by talent alone. Spend time to acquire new knowledge and skills which will benefit and help bring you closer to your dreams or goals.
Approach:
i. Dedicate some time each day or week to develop the area which you are most passionate about. There are many online resources available, including articles, videos and interactive platforms.
ii. To take it to another level, try working on weaker areas (e.g. public speaking) which are also complementary
5. Change the belief for quick results
Key takeaway: “Making small continuous improvement every day, will be compounded over time, and give them desired results.”
My greatest advice for everyone is “Consistency is key”. Build good habits and results will naturally follow.
Approach:
i. Do not give up when the desired results are not visible in a short time.
ii. Focus on the journey more than the outcome as some results may take longer than others to be seen.
