“How Can I Improve…”
An ACQYR Reader asked: “How can I become a better person?”
To be the best son, daughter, father, mother, spouse, manager, or employee, you need to first and foremost treat others how you want to be treated. It’s very simple, isn’t it?
But sometimes what’s so simple is also so hard to do. For example, do you like it when others get angry or annoyed at you? Then strive to be more patient with them. But patience can be so difficult!
A few key factors for overall self-improvement:
Self-Evaluation & Reflection
Reflecting on your behavior helps you see where you can improve. While lying in bed, think about how you handled any situations that you experienced during that day. We discussed self-evaluation more in depth in the ACQYR Advice response to “How Can I Identify My Strengths?”
Patience
Being patient can be very difficult especially when the frustrating force is out of your control. If you aren’t able to change something that’s out of your control, try to take a deep breathe to calm yourself down. Your body should slowly ease itself. Another trick I’ve picked up on is to genuinely smile. I’ve always found it difficult to be angry or impatient when I’m smiling! One last recommendation is to try to make small improvements and reach “mini-goals” in improving your patience. These mini-goals will help you see your progress. Over time, these minor goal achievements add up to become a larger accomplishment.
Communication
I’d say communication (both listening and speaking) is the most important skill you’ll need for self-improvement. With sharp communication skills you’ll be able to build trust and rapport and, in turn, respect. I’d recommend taking a look at “3 Tips for Improving your Communications” for improving your communication skills and “Build Rapport Through Buzzwords” for listening.
Appreciation & Gratitude
Showing your appreciation is almost always overlooked. People often say “they know I appreciate them, why do I need to tell them that!” But often it’s not quite understood until they hear it from you. Not only should you show gratitude for those around you, but you should also appreciate what you have because, as they always say, there’s always someone worse off than you. I’d encourage you to read: “The Timing and Importance of Gratitude.”
Examples of How to Improve
To Put it Simply…
…You have to be willing to:
Learn and Teach Grow and Foster Growth Be Heard and Listen Sacrifice and Accept Sacrifices Love and be Loved
The list covers both sides of each situation.
Not only do you need to personally learn, grow, be heard, sacrifice and love, but you have to be willing to help others by teaching, fostering growth, listening to others, accepting their sacrifices, and being open to be loved.
If you’re able to do these things, you’ll not only improve yourself, but improve your relationships with just about anyone: your boss, co-worker, family, or friends.
Best of luck and keep me updated on your progress!
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