In this month’s blog we will be hopping on the path to self-improvement! At one point or another we have all wished we could be better at one thing or another, or we have tried to kick a habit that was not serving us well. At Time ReDesigned, we believe that there is always room for improvement, and this month we are here to provide some guidance and support. In an article titled “How to Become a Better Person in 12 Steps” by Cindy Lamothe, she explains that self-improvement doesn’t involve harshly critiquing yourself, but rather being self-compassionate. It seems that many of us are constantly critiquing ourselves, but the way we approach this self-reflection can cause more harm than good. Lamothe explains to the reader in twelve steps how to build self-improvement into your daily routine in a positive manner and how to let go of the negativity towards yourself. To read the full article click here.
Cultivate gratitude
In previous newsletters, we have suggested keeping a gratitude journal due to the fact that your mindset is greatly impacted when you list all of the things you are thankful for. In the article, Lamothe recommends implementing the GIFT acronym when listing what you are grateful for.
Greet everyone you meet
Make an effort to greet people when you pass them in the hallway or when they walk into a room. This helps build relationships and helps connect you to those around you.
Try a digital detox
Unplug, get away from your screen! It’s summer and it's time to relax and unwind, or maybe read that book you’ve been wanting to read. Go on a walk, connect with nature and your own thoughts. Just do it!
Use positive self-talk
Try this form of self-reflection by stating a fact and then following it up with optimism. By doing this it helps diminish the overly harsh and negative comments which can lower your motivation or keep you from doing things all together!
Practice random acts of kindness
This is fairly self-explanatory, but try to spread positivity towards, students, co-workers and even total strangers. You never know when you will make someone's day or lift their mood.
Eat at least one meal mindfully
When you are having a very busy day it is most important that when you finally have time to eat lunch or dinner, that you give yourself a moment to check in with your body on how it's doing physically and emotionally. Scarfing down your food in a hurry adds to a sluggish feeling and may cause you to over-eat!
Get enough sleep
By now that we have all realized that if we don’t get enough sleep, or a good night's sleep, not only will we wake up grumpy, groggy, and unproductive, but we may also experience other negative health impacts.
Breathe consciously
Just like eating mindfully, taking a moment to take deep breaths has shown to boost your body’s relaxation response and helps to regulate your stress.
Clean for 30 minutes
Depending on your environment, clutter can influence your time’s restorative or stressful state. Cleaning and organizaing may be something to tackle if you’re at home or if you’re at work to significantly improve your productive and outlook.
Forgive yourself and others
If you are a person who feels like they have a lot of weight on their shoulders, maybe it’s time to reflect and see if you’re bottling emotions inside. When these emotions build up it can affect your overall mood and your attitude towards others. Let it go!
Engage in self-care
This isn’t the typical self-care of pampering, this type of self-care refers to your brain and body. Make time to exercise your mind and body, take time to connect to people, and most importantly to relax your body too.
Be kind to yourself
Many of us have a habit of living in the past! Maybe it was an event that happened or someone had said something to you that rubbed you the wrong way, but try to let it go and not take it personally. It’s time to be your own best friend, meaning to treat yourself how a loved one would.
We hope that these tips will benefit you and help you take time to self-reflect, positively! Building these routines into your daily life will help you create the best version of yourself. Who doesn’t want that?
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