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How to Choose the Right Career for Your Future

Choosing the right career for your future is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Your career affects your happiness, your income, your lifestyle, and your impact on the world. But, how do you know which career is right for you? And how do you make sure that your career choice will help you live the life you desire, achieving the success you want. Career choices are given much thought to, even at a young age but not all desires convert to choices made. This translation between what you want and what you choose, defines success and happiness.

In this article, we will share some tips and strategies on how to choose the right career for your future Here are the main points we will cover:

    • Why choosing the right career is important for your future

    • How to discover your passion, skills, and values

    • How to research and explore different career options

    • How to evaluate and compare different career paths

Why Choosing the Right Career is Important for Your Future

Choosing the right career is important for your future because it can affect many aspects of your life, such as:

    • Your happiness: If you choose a career that you enjoy and find meaningful, you will be more satisfied and fulfilled with your work. You will also be more motivated, productive, and creative. On the other hand, if you choose a career that you dislike or find boring, you will be more stressed, frustrated, and unhappy with your work. You may also experience burnout, depression, or anxiety.

    • Your income: If you choose a career that pays well and has good prospects, you will be able to afford a comfortable lifestyle and achieve your financial goals. You will also have more opportunities to grow and advance in your field. On the other hand, if you choose a career that pays poorly or has limited prospects, you may struggle to make ends meet and face financial difficulties. You may also have fewer chances to progress and develop in your field.

    • Your lifestyle: If you choose a career that suits your personality, preferences, and needs, you will be able to balance your work and personal life better. But you will also have more freedom and flexibility to pursue your hobbies, interests, and passions. On the other hand, if you choose a career that clashes with your personality, preferences, or needs, you may have to sacrifice your work or personal life. You may also have less control and autonomy over your schedule, tasks, and environment.

    • Your impact: If you choose a career that aligns with your values and goals, you will be able to make a positive difference in the world. You will also feel more proud and fulfilled with your work. On the other hand, if you choose a career that contradicts your values or goals, you may feel guilty or conflicted about your work. You may also feel less inspired and engaged with your work.

As you can see, choosing the right career is important for your future because it can affect your happiness, income, lifestyle, and impact. Therefore, it is worth spending some time and effort to find out what career is best for you.

At certain times when you feel like you are on a course that is not correct and the only way forward is Change, it is important in take the right steps to rectify it and choose a path that would provide all of the above and much more.

The Choice of the Right Career

How to Discover Your Passion, Skills, and Values

One of the first steps to choosing the right career for your future is to discover your passion, skills, and values. These are the three main factors that can help you identify what kind of work you enjoy and excel at.

    • Your passion: Your passion is what drives you and makes you excited about something. It is what gives you energy and motivation to pursue your goals. To discover your passion, ask yourself these questions: What do I love doing? What am I curious about? What makes me happy? What are my dreams?

    • Your skills: Your skills are what enable you to perform well and achieve results in something. They are what give you confidence and competence in your work. To discover your skills, ask yourself these questions: What am I good at? What do I learn quickly? What do I get praised for? What are my strengths?

    • Your values: Your values are what matter to you and guide your decisions in life. They are what give you meaning and purpose in your work. To discover your values, ask yourself these questions: What do I care about? What do I believe in? What do I stand for? What are my priorities?

Why Discovering your Passions, Skills and Values are Important

By discovering your passion, skills, and values, you can get a clearer picture of what kind of work suits you best. You can also use them as criteria to evaluate different career options later on.

In The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World, Dorie Clark lays emphasis on the fact that the hours in a day (24 to be precise) are the same in everyone’s life. The key to becoming effective is how we choose to use this time. Success is not meant to last a short while, but long term and the manner in which we chose to live day-to-day impacts our career and our choices.(Long Game – dorieclark.com )

Our Passion, Skills and Values are a key identifier to achieve success in all walks of life. The manner in which we identify with these and inculcate it into our very fabric determines success.

Discover your Goals

How to Research and Explore Different Career Options

Once you have discovered your passion, skills, and values, the next step is to research and explore different career options that match them. The power of your thoughts will enable and guide you along in choosing a career that would provide you with satisfaction and purpose. Some ways that can help you research and find clarity are the following:

    • Online research: You can use online tools and resources to learn more about different careers, such as their descriptions, requirements, salaries, outlooks, and more. Some examples of online tools and resources are: CareerOneStop, O*NET Online, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, Indeed, and LinkedIn.

    • Informational interviews: You can talk to people who work in different careers and ask them questions about their work, such as their roles, responsibilities, challenges, rewards, and advice. Some examples of questions you can ask are: What do you do in a typical day? What do you like and dislike about your work? How did you get into this career? What skills and qualifications do you need? What are the opportunities and challenges in this field?

    • Job shadowing: You can observe and follow people who work in different careers and see what they do in their work environment. You can also ask them questions and get feedback on your performance. Some examples of things you can observe and learn are: How they interact with their colleagues, clients, and customers. How they use their tools, equipment, and technology. How they solve problems, make decisions, and handle stress. How they balance their work and personal life.

    • Volunteering: You can offer your time and skills to help out in different organizations or causes that interest you. You can also gain valuable experience and network with people who work in different fields. Some examples of things you can do are: Help out in a local charity, school, or hospital. Join a community service or social justice project. Participate in a fundraising or awareness campaign.

By researching and exploring different career options, you can gain more knowledge and insight into what kind of work appeals to you.

Be Bold and Explore

How to Evaluate and Compare Different Career Paths

After you have researched and explored different career options, the final step is to evaluate and compare them to find the best one for you. You can do this by using a simple matrix or table that lists the pros and cons of each option based on your passion, skills, values, and other factors that are important to you.

For example, let’s say you are interested in three career options: graphic designer, teacher, and accountant. You can create a matrix like this:

Career Pros Cons
Graphic designer – Matches your passion for creativity and art
– Utilizes your skills in design and technology
– Aligns with your values of self-expression and innovation
– Pays well and has good prospects		 – Requires a lot of training and education
– Involves a lot of competition and pressure – Demands a lot of time and attention to detail
– May not offer a lot of stability or security
Teacher – Matches your passion for learning and teaching – Utilizes your skills in communication and leadership
– Aligns with your values of education and service
– Offers a lot of satisfaction and fulfilment		 – Requires a lot of training and certification
– Involves a lot of challenges and stress
– Demands a lot of patience and flexibility
– May not pay well or have good prospects
Accountant – Matches your passion for numbers and logic
– Utilizes your skills in math and analysis
– Aligns with your values of accuracy and integrity
– Pays well and has good prospects		 – Requires a lot of training and education
– Involves a lot of repetition and routine
– Demands a lot of concentration and compliance
– May not offer a lot of creativity or variety
Career Matrix

By using this matrix, you can see the advantages and disadvantages of each career option based on your own criteria. You can also weigh them against each other to see which one is the most suitable for you.

Conclusion

Steve Dalton’s ‘The 2 Hour Job Search, is a great job search manual that gives those seeking a career, an inlet into the tech world and presents a formula of efficiently and effectively targeting potential employers. He shows how to work smart and faster using technological resources to their advantage.(Amazon.com: The 2-Hour Job Search: Using Technology to Get the Right Job Faster eBook : Dalton, Steve: Kindle Store )

A career choice is paramount in living a fulfilled life. Sometimes the choices made early on, may be non- desirable at a later stage. It is never too late to make a career change and therefore, it is never too late to consider career choices or its resources as a way going forward. The trajectory of life gives a sense of purpose, determination and fulfilment, only if it is chosen wisely.

integratecoach

How to overcome obstacles and become a symbol of success

Introduction

Success is a multifaceted concept that varies from person to person. It encompasses achieving personal and professional goals, experiencing fulfillment, and making a positive impact on others. Along the journey to success, one is bound to face obstacles that can test determination and resilience. However, these obstacles should not be seen as roadblocks but rather as opportunities for growth and development.

Let us explore how to overcome obstacles and achieve success. We can never come by it easy, there is hard work, persistence with an added mix of resilience and risk that empowers us along the way. Giving up, although easy remains the least path desired. The size of the obstacle, if overcome, does not determine the size of success. However, it does generate confidence to be resolute in the face of the current and future obstacles as and when they appear.

Resilient in the face of challenges

Understanding Obstacles

Obstacles come in various forms, such as physical, emotional, mental, or external challenges. They can arise from self-doubt, fear, societal expectations, or unforeseen circumstances. It is essential to recognize both internal and external obstacles and understand how they can shape personal development. By acknowledging and understanding these obstacles, individuals can develop strategies to overcome them effectively. It is essential to understand that obstacles are ever changing and it is not necessarily true to have the same kind, twice over.

To recognize an obstacle is not difficult. Anything that stands in the path of you achieving that which you desire can be an obstacle. Some might prevent you from doing harm to self and others, which must be considered a boon. While others might restrict you from scaling great heights, if you succumb to it, these are surely to be considered a bane. Whichever side of the obstacle you might be on, learning how to deal with them is what this blog is all about.

Cultivating the Right Mindset

A key factor in overcoming obstacles is cultivating a growth mindset. This mindset embraces challenges, views failures as opportunities for learning, and believes in the power of perseverance. By shifting our perspective on failure and setbacks, we can approach obstacles with resilience and determination. Developing a positive mindset empowers individuals to see obstacles as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks.

Truth be told, it is easier said than done. However, the one thing that no obstacle or any other force can take away from you is your mindset, unless you give it enough power to unleash its negatives. The thoughts you allow yourself to mould into, the belief systems you permit to be wired to and the words you declare, all have a way of affecting your mindset.

Setting Clear Goals and Building a Plan

Setting clear and specific goals is crucial in overcoming obstacles. By defining what success means to you and breaking down your goals into achievable steps, you create a roadmap for progress. Building a well-thought-out plan helps in identifying potential obstacles and creating strategies to overcome them. With a clear vision and a solid plan in place, obstacles become manageable hurdles rather than insurmountable barriers.

Manage your attitude and fears to overcome the initial step. It is the very first of these steps that sets in motion the desire and commitment to change, no matter the cost, no matter the consequence.

Albert Einstein, said “If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people of things.”

James Clear the author of Atomic Habits (Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear) discovered that real change comes from the compound effect of hundreds of small decisions. It is these smalls changes that can alter one’s life to achieve success.

Be ever present and learn from others

Seeking Knowledge and Learning from Others

Learning from mentors, role models, and those who have successfully overcome similar obstacles can be invaluable. Seeking guidance and leveraging available resources can provide insights, strategies, and inspiration to navigate through challenges. Continuous learning and skill development play a vital role in overcoming obstacles and adapting to new circumstances. Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions and take calculated risks.

I am a strong believer that we can learn learn something new everyday, from people and things around us, even nature teaches us much more than we are willing to accept. It is important to keep an open mind to learn and unlearn. It only adds to your arsenal.

Taking Action and Embracing Change

Overcoming obstacles requires taking proactive steps and embracing change. Stepping outside your comfort zone and facing challenges head-on is essential for personal growth. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity allows you to learn from mistakes, make adjustments, and persevere. Adapting to change and being flexible in your approach enables you to navigate obstacles and seize new opportunities.

Change is essential and it can help us grow and develop as a human being capable of resilience in the face of acute situations. In his book, Embracing Change, Dr. Harry Barry share practical tools and techniques to manage change effectively and live life to the fullest. (Embracing Change – How to build resilience and make change work for you (drharrybarry.com)

Embracing life and all that comes with it can enable our growth and development in the right direction. It is essential to fight for survival, but not with a defeatist mindset but a victorious one. Life is challenging and the need to face it head on is one of the many ways we can embrace the true meaning of living and empowerment.

The ABC of Change – (integratecoach.com)

Building a Supportive Network

Building a supportive network is crucial in overcoming obstacles. Surrounding yourself with positive influences, mentors, and like-minded individuals creates a strong support system. Seeking emotional and practical support from this network can provide encouragement, advice, and assistance during challenging times. Collaboration and networking opportunities can open doors to new perspectives and resources.

Dr. Harry Barry in his book The power of Connection (The Power of Connection (drharrybarry.com) provides a detailed roadmap to build better communications at the workplace and also to imbibe social confidence that enable us to have emotional connections with ourselves and others.

It is within a network of supportive family, friends and colleagues that we can thrive and find our true self. It is imperative that we find those who can help us along the way to overcome obstacles.

Self care and determination to overcome challenges

Practicing Self-Care and Well-being

Taking care of your well-being is vital when facing obstacles. Managing stress, prioritizing physical health, and nurturing emotional well-being help maintain resilience and focus. Striking a balance between work and personal life ensures that you have the energy and motivation to tackle obstacles effectively. Self-care provides the foundation for personal growth and overcoming challenges.

Persistence and Determination

Persistence and determination are key ingredients in overcoming obstacles. Maintaining focus and motivation, even in the face of adversity, allows you to stay committed to your goals. Setbacks and obstacles are part of the journey, and a strong mindset combined with unwavering determination propels you forward. Celebrating milestones and successes along the way reinforces motivation and builds momentum.

Overcoming Obstacles as a Symbol of Success

When individuals successfully overcome obstacles, they become symbols of inspiration and success. By sharing their personal triumphs and stories of resilience, they inspire others to persevere through their own challenges. Becoming a role model for resilience and growth creates a ripple effect, encouraging others to embrace their obstacles and work towards achieving their goals. Ultimately, overcoming obstacles becomes a powerful way to leave a lasting impact on the world.

Conclusion

Overcoming obstacles is an integral part of the journey to success. By embracing challenges, cultivating the right mindset, setting clear goals, seeking knowledge, taking action, building a support network, practising self-care, and maintaining persistence, individuals can overcome obstacles and become symbols of success. The path to success is not always smooth, but it is through facing and conquering obstacles that true growth and achievement are realized. So, embrace the challenges, stay determined, and become the symbol of success you aspire to be.

Celebrate Success over Obstacles
integratecoach

How to effectively Manage and Reduce Stress:

How to Effectively Manage and Reduce Stress: Expert Tips

The Stress factor is a big deal in today’s world for many individuals, corporates, organisations etc. It is visible in work ethics, commitments and communications. Stress levels are dangerously high and until something can be done about it, effectiveness will be at a minimum. Can we be stree-free or is it a myth? Is there anything as having an aspiration to be stress free, something that can be controlled? How wonderful would it be for a race that has brought stress upon ourselves, now to seek out noble and effective ways to remedy it.

Nothing is beyond the reach of mankind, with its advancements in every field, the opportunity to explore the externals and examine the internals. We must look deeper and find ways in which we can deal with stress and its dangers. What is stress is the first question one must be able to answer prior to finding resolves to overcome it. Not all stress is bad, some embolden to take decisive actions that ultimately proves beneficial. However, the stress I would like to focus on is that which is risky.

What is Stress?:

It is the body’s natural response to situations that are challenging. These can be physical, emotional or psychological. Stress can be an outcome of nature or nurture. Nature, in the sense what happens to you as you grow up in your early life. These factors are quite instrumental in your response to stress. Nurture could be factored in with the minute yet mighty powers of our genes. Although, this is not to be considered as permanent. Stress can be dealt with and if successful can promote an overall wellness.

When faced with stress our immediated response is one of ‘fight or flight’, and to counterbalance this is our vagus nerve comes into play: the seat that brings about relaxation. Our bodies have an inbuilt system of dealing with stress and we must make the best use of it.

In the article Stress and Your Health Bruce McEwen, Robert Sapolsky1 state that when we deal with stress:

“the stress response causes the body to release several stress hormones (e.g., cortisol and adrenaline) into the bloodstream. These hormones intensify your concentration, ability to react, and strength. Also, your heart rate and blood pressure increase, and your immune system and memory are sharper. After you have dealt with the short-term stress, your body returns to normal.

Chronic or long-term stress, however, poses a problem. If you repeatedly face challenges and your body is constantly producing higher levels of hormones, it doesn’t have time to recover. Stress hormones build up in the blood and, over time, can cause serious health problems.”

Never Doubt.

Outlined below are several steps to tackle the stress factor and to bring your life back on track. Remember that the while the stress battle might be real, there is great power within you to take back control of your life an truly live a victorious life.

Understanding Stress: The First Step to Conquering It

Before diving into effective stress management techniques, it’s important to understand the nature of stress itself. Stress is the body’s response to demanding or challenging situations. While it can be a natural and necessary response, chronic stress can have detrimental effects on both our physical and mental health.

Recognizing the Signs of Stress

Stress can manifest itself in various ways, and it’s crucial to identify the signs and symptoms to address the issue promptly. Common physical symptoms of stress include headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. On an emotional level, stress can lead to irritability, anxiety, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.

Prioritizing Self-Care: Your Key to Stress Relief

When stress becomes overwhelming, self-care should be your top priority. Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential for managing stress effectively. Here are some expert-recommended self-care practices to incorporate into your routine:

  1. Physical Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity not only benefits your physical health but also has a profound impact on your stress levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking each day.
  2. Healthy Eating: Nourishing your body with a well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in stress management. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, as they can exacerbate stress.
  3. Quality Sleep: Establishing a consistent sleep routine is vital for stress reduction. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night2. Create a calming bedtime routine and ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to restful sleep.
  4. Time Management: Learning effective time management skills can help alleviate stress caused by overwhelming workloads. Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and delegate responsibilities when possible. Break larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps3.
Resilience in the smallest of spaces.

Building Resilience: Strengthening Your Stress Coping Mechanisms

In addition to self-care practices, building resilience can empower you to navigate stress more effectively. Resilience is the ability to adapt and bounce back from challenging situations. Here are some strategies to enhance your resilience:

  1. Cultivate a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with a strong support system of family, friends, or colleagues who can provide encouragement and assistance during stressful times. Seek their guidance and lean on them when needed.
  2. Positive Thinking: Foster a positive mindset by challenging negative thoughts and reframing them into more positive and constructive perspectives. Practice gratitude and focus on the good in your life.
  3. Journaling: This is a great way to not only check your progress but also to create a mindset of putting into to writing an actionable plan. Journaling keeps a pace that you would love following and one that can open up new opportunities for new experiences.
  4. Stress-Relieving Techniques: Explore various stress-relieving techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy. Find what works best for you and make it a regular part of your routine.
  5. Seek Professional Help: If stress becomes unmanageable or starts affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A qualified therapist or counselor can provide valuable guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.
Lose Stress, not Yourself.

Creating a Stress-Free Environment

Beyond personal practices, it’s essential to create a stress-free environment that promotes relaxation and well-being. Consider the following tips to foster a calming atmosphere:

  1. Declutter and Organize: A cluttered space can contribute to feelings of overwhelm and stress. Take time to declutter your living and working areas, creating a clean and organized environment that promotes focus and tranquility.
  2. Incorporate Relaxation Techniques: Introduce calming elements into your environment, such as soothing scents, soft lighting, and calming music. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques like aromatherapy, candlelight baths, or nature sounds to enhance relaxation.
  3. Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries with work and personal commitments to ensure a healthy work-life balance. Learn to say no when necessary and prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Taking Action for a Stress-Free Life

By implementing these expert tips into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to managing and reducing stress effectively. Remember, stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to overpower you. Take charge of your well-being, prioritize self-care, and seek support when needed.

Conclusions:

Stress is not new found. It has been around from the time of our early ancestors and has showed up in different ways with different names. The Stress Factor however, does not need to be debilitating. It can be an opportunity to recognize and an outlet to overcome both the ills and benefits it provides. To live a stress free life is to recognize that stress is real, and allow enough personal and professional space to follow key steps. This can create a life that is worth living and one that can impart true freedom.

1The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 91, Issue 2, 1 February 2006, Page E2, https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.91.2.9994

Published:01 February 2006; accessed 25 May, 2023.

2(2023) . [] Avaliable at: https://www.sportskeeda.com/stories/supercharge-your-immunity-7-effective-ways-to-boost-it-naturally/ (Accessed: 25 May, 2023).

3(2023) . [] Avaliable at: https://www.sportskeeda.com/stories/supercharge-your-immunity-7-effective-ways-to-boost-it-naturally/ (Accessed: 25 May, 2023).

Towards Freedom and Light
integratecoach

How to make Influence your priority

Introduction

How can I make influence my priority to be most effective. What is the significance of it and how will it affect those I am trying to influence?

Our ability to connect and influence people can never be overstated. While people may enjoy success and revel in it, yet there are those who go beyond. Those who invest in others with their greatest asset – TIME. Connections are important and how you maintain them will truly define how far along you will go in life.

We never know which lives we influence, or when, or why. – Stephen King

Seth Godin, in his book, Tribes- we need you to lead us, elaborates on a core subject which has lost its sheen over the years. In it he suggests we all need to be part of a TRIBE. He defines a tribe as a group of people connected to one another, connected to a leader, and connected to an idea.

Tribes: We need you to lead us: Amazon.co.uk: Seth Godin: 8601404335006: Books

They were around for millions of years and their effect on life, both individual and collective are evident.

Tribes can be strong, fierce, intimidating and yet soft, endued with strength masked with meekness. It is in tribes that you find an ‘ingathering’, a ‘welcoming’, and ‘a feeling of belonging’. There is enough evidence to support that tribes have an influence that is larger than life. It is the foundation for many a great movement, revolutionary endeavours and in some cases religious exploits. What is it about tribes, about influence that elevates it beyond that of success? Why our approach to this subject really matters, is what we will consider going forward.

Change requires Leadership:

Leadership is the ability to create change and Influence is a key tool in leadership. You cannot do the same thing repeatedly and expect different results. There must be a moment to pause (if not stop altogether), reset and restart. Influence is however, not confined to only those in leadership. It goes beyond that, to any who can cause a significant shift in people’s behaviours, attitudes, and mindsets.

To see yourself as an influencer, you must move away from the existing norms. One that confines you to make small changes in small circles. You have got to see the bigger picture and what that implies to those who will follow you eventually.

Social media platforms pass a trust vote based on the content shared. There is no denying the power of social media, what is said by one in one part of the world has the power to affect many globally. Many who climb the rungs of social media and garner a trust vote tends to be called an influencer.

Are we Influencers or are we being Influenced

What is the Influence? Who are they Influencing? Questions like these and much more are debatable and can be easily deflected by those not on such mediums. However, this is one such area where the power of a person or group can be gauged.

Where are you today in terms of your influence and what can you change to be more effective? What will you be willing to give up and what are you eager to learn?

The influencer becomes more influential, more popular and has an increase in fan base, because they adjust their sails to the winds of change and are awesome at what they do.

Influencers are Self Developers:

In his book GRIT – how to keep going when you want to give up Martin Meadows talks about the importance of monitoring your inner critic. He suggests replacing this critic with positive thoughts that will lead you to kill your inner critical voice.  Thereafter, make a list of your positive attributes which is another useful technique to improve your self-esteem. The key, he says is to be honest and write the list without any judgements. Once it’s ready, re-read it every single day until it sinks in that you’re not as worthless as you think.

Furthermore, become kinder toward other people. When you treat other people well, they will return the favour, thus making you feel better about yourself. These are just a few steps to overcome that inner critic, the one that is ready to kill your ability to develop,

Grit: How to Keep Going When You Want to Give Up eBook : Meadows, Martin: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Do not give your power away:

We all have at some point or the other struggled with limiting beliefs. The reason why this cannot be noticed much is because it’s all in our heads. We make choices that leads to wrong outcomes. We drive ourselves insane by working late hours, overworking our bodies and to say the least, our minds. Our energies are sapped and the motivation to do anything is long gone.

The power of your thoughts – (integratecoach.com)

How can we comeback from such a defeat? The key performance indicator in our case will be to practice the art of self-development. What does this mean? 

Self-development is defined, “as the process by which a person’s character or abilities are gradually developed.” It is a consistent growth. Small changes every day to both the body and the mind. It is a commitment to oneself to be better than yesterday and passionate about being the best tomorrow.

Self-Improvement Goals:

To live a full life, one that is rich in experience and purpose we must strive for self-improvement. There is no easy path towards achieving this. It takes determination, discipline, and an earnest desire to grow.

The following are some goals that are worth exploring. Although not an exhaustive list it is a great place to start.

  1. Find your purpose in Life

The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why – Mark Twain

What is your Purpose? How do you find it?

That which fuels us beyond just earning and making a good living must be essentially described as our purpose. Not the daily grind of things done, but one that opens the world as a canvas for you to paint on. A passion to help people in any form is a key component of finding your purpose.

Our purpose must really be intertwined with what we can give people, with what they really need and this would be an awesome achievement. When you do find your purpose, which of course is a personal endeavour, you will be more content with life than you ever did.

2. Improve Relationships

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even heard but must be felt with the heart.”—Helen Keller

Healthy relationships are a foundation to a healthy living. An increased life span flow out of maintaining and continuing relationships of choice rather than those of circumstances. They are unmanageable at times and quite often a burden. What can we do to improve them?

Openness and trust are key essentials within any relationship. Most misunderstandings happen when these two are absent. If we can relay a story in our thought process that not everyone needs to subscribe to my kind of life. And I am not indebted to live out someone else’s, this in itself is a great improver of relationships. A great place to begin is to ask, what do I really want out of this relationship? Once you have answered that question, you will find clarity to sort out and improve them.

3. Challenge ourselves to grow consciously

“I will not let anyone walk through my mind with their dirty feet.” – Mahatma Gandhi

To grow is an art and so is to stagnate. Either way there will be an outcome. How we chose to use this to our benefit is what will define us in the long run. Challenges are not the things we choose but the things that surely shape us. Just like gold is made pure in the furnace, and the sword sharpened in the fire, so it must be with our minds.

We must never stop learning. The mind is the one area, if not used affects all others. Set objective goals, quantify success moments, embrace the failures and be willing to grow through it. Allow life to be an experience that enables you to grow and it must begin with mastering your mind.

4. Develop Emotional Intelligence

“When dealing with people, remember you are not dealing with creatures of logic, but with creatures of emotion” – Dale Carnegie

Emotional intelligence (also known as emotional quotient) in any form of leadership is comprised of teachable soft skills. These include empathy, awareness, resilience, vulnerability, social skills, and motivation. These are inherent to growth and to become emotionally aware, both self and that which is around.

It is defined as the ability to understand and manage your emotions and influence the emotions of those around. The term was first coined in 1990 by John Mayer and Peter Salovey and later popularized by Daniel Goleman.

5. Cultivate Resilience

“The oak fought the wind and was broken, the willow bent when it must and survived” –Robert Jordan

It is the ability to overcome any kind of adversity. Choosing to face challenges and setbacks confidently, is a key indicator of resilience. Do not get stuck with your situations or negative circumstances. Choose to rise above them. It will make you stronger. This ‘bouncing back’ from adversity is what will allow you to grow and improve your life along the way.

Cultivating resilience is not always the easy path to take. We humans, often choose the easy path out and avoid or withdraw from the difficult ones. However, the truth is that adversity can build you up and lead you to heights you have never imagined. Every lesson learned is an opportunity for growth. Find your purpose in life and follow through. Your purpose will be your light house to lead you in the right direction.

Conclusions:

While we all want to be successful, it is the influencers that will often be remembered. What you can impart to someone else, especially something of value will be retained. Glance across any social media platforms and you will identify whose voice is the loudest. People choose to follow influencers, those who can create a tribe. One in which they can relate to the leader, have a sense of security (not financial), a purpose. Perhaps, the most import aspect of why an influencer is worth following is they will often take the path least chosen.

This is not to say that successful people have not carved out new roads for themselves. Many have taken roads that would have been considered impossible and have reached new heights of success. I personally believe that while success is mostly self-gratifying, influence leads others to look within and truly believe.  Both have an outlook to influence and create change. The powerplay of what you want to achieve ultimately, is the very thing that will draw lines separating influence and success. Influence spreads. It is heard and believed. Influence has the power to bring focus to the blur. To realign, repurpose and rekindle oneself to the create a lasting legacy.

Power Vs. Influence: Knowing The Difference Could Make Or Break Your Company by Beth Kuhel is a great add on to a read for the workplace. Power Vs. Influence: Knowing The Difference Could Make Or Break Your Company (forbes.com)

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How to become a Creative Genius

Introduction

Creativity is the lens through which we must see the world. It is what sets apart the genius from the ordinary. And come to think about it, when we look all around, what do we see? Marvel, Wonder and Genius ~ Creativity at its best.

The world and its beauty, people and their minds, talent unveiled, and the genius unleashed. It is all around us and we can experience it through our senses. Creativity that we experience on the outside, is the outcome of that which was first on the inside. With a mind that can conceive it, and a heart that believes in it, nothing is beyond reach.

What is creativity and how would you know someone is creative? For instance, is it be a piece of art that draws the interest of so many. Music unheard of, voices enchanting, drowning in a sea of mesmerisation? Is creativity defined by the act of doing something unimagined and something unique. Similarly, something so surreal even nature’s mind cannot conceive.

In this article, I want to help you discover the truths about creativity. I will bring to light certain myths and some ways in which you can rise above it all. And It is to create an awareness and celebrate the genius that is YOU. I want to help you change your perspective on your perspective. If you feel you lack creativity, then this will surely help you. It will also be a great place to begin, to know more about yourself.

The ‘BEST’ news you can hear today is that creativity is not for a select few. It is for all, if you are willing to take steps towards it. Creativity is the path that has enabled humans to survive and thrive for all ages. It is an innate quality we possess. Nothing can take that right from you, as long you do not deny yourself that privilege.

Neuroscience has made remarkable strides in this very field.  It must be a sleeping giant brought to life. A masterpiece of any form is creativity at its best to both creator and the object created. Therefore, a general definition of creativity has two parts to it – Firstly, it reflects a capacity to generate ideas that are original and unique in some way. And Secondly, it must be effective within any specific context.

Excellence in Creativity

Creativity: The New Skill

In the age that is NOW, creativity will be a necessity for everyone, and it will be a key skill and talent for individuals. In addition, the pressure seems to mount in the digital age, where technology is so intertwined with humans. Where the computational power of machines is no longer exaggerated. Information and access to it is reduced to anyone who has access to the networked resources.

Therefore, “Information is power,” is no longer the value it once had. Creativity must scale up, in terms of adaptive performance, alienating the ordinary to excel in the realm of the extraordinaire. Creativity must be such, that your influence is far reaching. It is the new currency, expected and accepted world over.

What stands out as being Creative? Psychologists who study creativity closely, call the big scale performers or the large-scale recognizable faces and their creativity as the Big C- creativity. What about it on a smaller scale? Those who expend creativity daily, using it for functional purposes, or forming new ideas or even a daily to do list with a twist. Therefore, what all of it comes down to in other words is – How does creativity work? and what makes some more creative than others?

Read Shelly Carson’s book to learn more on the power of creativity and how it can influence your everyday. The choices you make with relations, emotions, the power of transformation with training your creative mind.

Your Creative Brain: Seven Steps to Maximize Imagination, Productivity, and Innovation in Your Life: 1 (Harvard Health Publications): Amazon.co.uk: Carson, Shelley: 9780470547632: Books

The Brain power for creativity

The Mighty Brain and Creativity

The human brain has a staggering 86 billion neurons that enable us to do our daily tasks and nudge us towards creativity. The complex wiring and continuous firing of these neurons assist in this very task. And the brain is curious, restless and in an ever seeking mode to find something that is worth exploring.

This has led us to innovate and create. There are no individual parts of the brain that can be pinpointed specifically for creativity. But there are several parts of the brain that works in tandem to create the Genius that we are and can further become.. Creativity involves specific brain activation which can be reached by the conscious mind and continuous practice.

Myth Busted: The left-brain Vs the right-brain in creativity

Those with the left brain being more dominant are more logical, serious, analytical and therefore not very creative, as opposed to those who are right brained and more creatively inclined. This is far from the truth, as creativity requires many parts of the brain to work together to create almost a beautiful, synchronised dance pattern leading up to creativity at its best. While this concept is still accepted at large, it remains to be in truth, a myth.

Myth Busted: Creativity is for a select few

We get creative daily. We use creativity to solve problems and overcome challenges. The next time you are stuck with something, view yourself from a third person’s perspective and notice how you creatively solve the challenge at hand. Are you creative in cleaning, driving, playing, cooking?

You may not have the creative genius of some people in some areas. For example: you may not know how to play a musical instrument, but you are awesome in sports. You may not be a master at vocal conversations, but you can communicate effectively and creatively. You may not be a celebrity, but you have a fan following with the creative sense to solve issues at hand. These and much more, some seen and some experienced, sets you apart as being creative.

We are all creative beings and we must embrace it.

Myth Busted: Creativity is age based

While it is true that somethings learned early on in life may be better and long lasting. It does not always have to be the case though. There are many creative aspects that can be learned and practiced at a later stage in life too. It is essential to have a clear goal in mind with the area of creativity you can venture out into. We may be equally great at two different things, but it is important to know which one will guide you creatively. You do not want to be “the jack of all trades and master of none.” Painting and Dancing are you strong points on the creative chart. But the one that serves your purpose must be the one you choose.

What you have to offer is crucial as opposed to the age you have to offer it at. Many detractors will choose to believe that age is what makes all the difference, I believe otherwise. Many have “hidden gems” of creativity which flourishes only in adulthood.

Technology, is a large part of the creative world and uncharted waters, now seem too obvious. Generational gap is a thing of the past. No one really believes it any more now. Technology has accelerated with its pros and cons, a global world in the palm of our hands. Those on the other side of adolescence and teenage years, if, genuinely eager can cross the technological barrier and succeed creatively.

What sets one apart creatively, is not any one of the above (not an exhaustive list) but a combination of all of it. We must explore the horizons of creativity, breaking the barriers of stereotype, and embarking on a journey of success. Without it the world would be a boring place to live in.

We must never stop learning or growing. Cease the opportunity while it is in the offering, a daily growth and pursuit of excellence creatively. What are the creative channels? Where does all this genius within us come out from?

Channels of creativity and connections

Channels of Creativity

Creativity draws on three specific brain networks.

  • The Executive Brain Network, also called as the Executive Attention Network. This part of the brain holds information of how we interact with the world, creates lasting strategies to work with. It discourages one to make first choices as obvious ones, thus, leaving room for creativity to be explored.
  • The Default Brain Network, one that looks within oneself, exploring goals for the future, gathering concrete responses to others within their worldview etc.
  • The Salience Brain Network, the network connecting that which is important, interesting, worth taking a note of.

We must plunge deep into the waters of creativity; with the raw materials, we have to draw out of. The vast array of talents, the continuous working of the creative brain and the collective intelligences of those around. They must spur us towards searching for more, not mere groping in the dark. Our bearings must guide us in the right direction. The Gut Brain is crucial to creativity – the knowing of just knowing something is worth trying and worth the risk even to attempt it.

Creativity looks beyond

New Meaning of Creativity:

Brain and Creativity is a large field to explore, and the task of this blog is not to uncover all of it. However, that which is crucial to understand and on a more personal, yet deeper level, experienced. Allow me to present to you couple of ways by which creativity and its associations with our brains can take on a new meaning.  Even so heighten creativity personally:

  1. BE WILLING TO TAKE RISKS

Creativity and Risk are inseparable. Creative people are often risk takers. They thrive on it and are elated when it pays off. While most people prefer living in the safe zone, creative people are not satisfied. Every major playing field has had its own share of players who fought against their beliefs. Those of being safe versus taking risks even when it wasn’t the norm.

People in general prefer staying in the safety zone to say the least. Creativity flows out of the adrenaline that seeps through risks. It is the desire to tread on uncommon ground. To explore unseen aspects in various fields. The longing to be the best. This and much more drives the intensity to reach new heights. Even if the risk does not pay off, it remains a lesson learned and worth the try.

Watch yourself closely and consider the next step you are willing to take. Is it in the risk zone or safety? However, there is nothing wrong in playing it safe and still living the life you intend to live. Yet, to be creative, risk is a major booster, and it will pay dividends if you stay the course.

course and not give up. It holds to two differing viewpoints: to face the Giant or to slay it. The giant of mediocrity, laziness, comfort, satisfaction versus excellence, hard work, intentional and a yearning not easily satisfied.

2. LEAVE ROOM FOR IMAGINATIONS

A busy mind is not equivalent to an imaginative one. The brain is wired to accommodate imaginations. They are multi-faceted and incur surprises even the most creative would have never imagined. The scope of imaginations may accomplish for the person generating those thoughts, a new plane of creativity. We can associate it with thinking things that do not exist, yet one that can be applied.

Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

Albert Einstein

It is the door to possibilities.

Imaginations and creativity can be a linear process, parallel or even overlapping. It is an area we must never neglect. Where your mind can take you, follow it through. You never know what can come out of it. Leaving enough room for imaginations to take over, and ideating over it can break the glass ceiling. It may be something that can revolutionize the world for the better.

It is a lightning moment that can spark enough power to bring the brain alive. Ideas born in the womb of imaginations. It is not the mighty or the brave who always win, many times it is the imaginative.

Imagination = Creativity – Imagination Matters

3. PRACTICE WITH INTENT

Neuroscience has made progress with its it’s studies on Neuroplasticity. While we agree that there are many things you can master in the formative years. Yet, there are things that you can develop or fine tune at a later stage in life.

It is the magnificence of the brain that leaves room for such changes. One can learn a new language at any point if they practice long enough. You can learn and master a new sport if you practice hard and with discipline. You can become a prolific writer if you keep writing and rewriting, learning, and growing.

The perfect blend of practice and the connection of the brain directs one to creativity.

Practice is the aspect of applying the learned into actions. The intent to whatever you do lies at the heart of it all. No one practices diligently unless they look to accomplish something.

Deep practice is the path followed by those who work to develop expertise and mastery in their field. It takes practice to the edge of your abilities. And when you are there, you make mistakes and face challenges, but then you must practice a little more. This continuous practice hones your skillset and abilities to shape and transform your creativity.

Daniel Coyle, the author of The Talent Code says, “operating at the edges of your ability, where you make mistakes — makes you smarter.”

Why does making mistakes make you smarter?

The answer is neurological. Myelin is a neural substance that wraps layers of insulation around the neural circuit, each layer adding a bit more to improve actions and thoughts surrounding the action performed. Each time you make a mistake, it is not a lost cause and one that only strengthens it.

Myelin grows through struggle and pushing yourself beyond your safe zone.

You want to be a creative genius. Practice with intent. Do not give up. The firing and wiring inside of your head are powerful. Unseen, yet deadly. It needs the opportunity to form and grow. A German proverb states, “You will become clever through your mistakes.” Your mistakes are your building blocks.

Anything done with intention produces results.

4. LEARN, UNLEARN, RELEARN

Learning is a Process, so is Unlearning and Relearning.

You can never become creative overnight, it is a long journey. It is one filled with mysteries, surprises and some even predictable. This is the beauty of embarking on a journey towards becoming a creative genius.

It is not the destination that always matters, but the experience along the journey.

While your journey may look different from that of the next person. Yet, that is what makes it exciting. The challenge therefore is are we willing to learn, unlearn, and relearn? This changes our outlook to life. What difference would it really make if all we were ever doing is compete and beat the next person. Where is my growth in that? I can make a choice to either have myself as my competitor or find someone else to compete with.

I do agree that having someone to compete with, in a healthy manner is not all wrong. It may be a catalyst to your motivation. It can create awareness and a disciplined life. This may not be entirely wrong yet think with me for a moment – What happens when I get better than my competition, what then?

Would you then have room for improvement, or will you look for someone else to challenge and overcome and this becomes an endless cycle of ‘find and beat’.

We all need disruptions in our life. A jolt to keep us awake to the reality.

The benefits of having yourself as your own competition are many. If you can create an awareness of your strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats (SWOT). An analysis invented in the 1960’s by Albert Humprey that proposes a model to bring accountability and objectivity to the planning process.

What is a SWOT Analysis | Lucidchart

While this analysis is used mainly in management circles, it has a similar impact when used on self. It is primarily an eye opener and a great medium to expand your awareness. This model along with the Johari window (Understanding the Johari Window model – Self Awareness) can enhance your chances for success and so help you towards creativity.

“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.”

Alwin Toffler
  • Learn: Definition: gain or acquire knowledge of or skill in (something) by study, experience, or being taught.

To possess a desire to learn is gratifying. It builds the muscles of the brain. In the process of learning we gather data (for whatever purpose it serves us). Not all data is significant, or accurate. The process of learning does not end here. We prepare our mind to separate the kernel from the cob, the wheat from the chaff. We must work at a pace that suits our learning. Our mind can hold about 2-3 thoughts at any one time (it is debatable) and about 6,000 thoughts day.

The question is how many of these thoughts are generated through the process of learning. The more we choose to dwell on learned thoughts, the greater will be the effect it brings.

With that being said, we must leave enough room to find alternatives. When what we have learned is challenged with facts, we must be willing to change our stance. In this we also find a learning curve. A skill to master.

  • Unlearn: Definition: discard (something learned, especially a bad habit or false or outdated information) from one’s memory.

This process is calling time out when you need it the most. It is changing your perspective, previous held beliefs or even something already learned. The unlearn process is fluid, quickly transforming into something new. To be in this state is to plunge into a world of endless possibilities.

  • Relearn: Definition:  learn (something) again.

Relearning, is the scope available to remove those things that you believed once to be true. And In its place you apply a truth that has come with greater learning and a deeper insight.

Creativity can be deep and meaningful to the individual and to others at large. And it all depends on how we choose to eliminate the not so important with that which is critical to growth and development.

“Knowledge is learned, Wisdom is lived.”

“to attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day. 

Lao Tzu

Conclusion:

Find what you are passionate about. Keep practicing what is important to you and never give up. However, you may find moments when you may entirely want to stop doing what you are doing. It is in these very episodes of the should I or should I not, you are being formed.

So, creative people are where they are because of certain decisions they have made. It is a determination that even in the face of ridicule, they will not give up.

Passion will keep you going when nothing else will. Creativity is an art. Nothing about it is simple yet always beautiful. Set up goals that you can work with and work towards. S.M.A.R.T goals help you live Smart. – (integratecoach.com).

To become a creative genius hard work is non-negotiable. Creativity allows you to follow your dream, your calling, your passion whatever gives you the push towards fulfilment. The journey must be just as beautiful as the destination. You can become a creative genius. What is stopping you? Dream Big, Dream On.

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How S.M.A.R.T goals help you live Smart.

The Power to create Change is within You.

Work Smarter, not Harder is an adage coined by Allen F. Morgenstern in the 1930s, but the concept has been around much longer. And while this statement may seem to have the final authority on progress in general, nothing is further from the truth..  Mark Murphy wrote an article in (‘SMART’ Goals Can Sometimes Be Dumb (forbes.com) (more…)

Work Smarter, not Harder is an adage coined by Allen F. Morgenstern in the 1930s, but the concept has been around much longer. And while this statement may seem to have the final authority on progress in general, nothing is further from the truth..  Mark Murphy wrote an article in (‘SMART’ Goals Can Sometimes Be Dumb (forbes.com) (more…)

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The ABC of Change

THE ART OF CREATING CHANGE

Change is not an option, but a necessity. We often try ‘to reinvent the wheel’, when in fact we should ‘break the mould’ or ‘turn a new leaf’. Have you ever asked yourself- What stops you from changing? What are the essentials you require to change? What drives your choices? How do your beliefs and values shape your outlook?

Henry David Thoreau said, “The path of least resistance leads to crooked rivers and crooked men.” What is your truth? Doing the right thing is the key, even when the right thing is not easy. Quite often life seems to be a drag and during it, we find ourselves seeking ourselves. What is your true potential? Do you know where you are headed? How long are you going to be on a road that never seems to end? These are few questions and its form that bombard us ever so increasingly.

Anchors of Change

In a world where things change so rapidly. Ideas, Philosophies, Passions, Trust, Relationships, Governments, Health etc… What is your ANCHOR? An anchor is not the thing that holds you back, but that which gives you balance, a perspective to lean into. An anchor that keeps you grounded and protects you. These anchors are different for every person. Some anchors maybe – family, friends, values, religion, spirituality, culture. Whatever the anchor, the key is for it to bring about lasting change in the way you view the world and the way you view yourself.

The shift must be an internal one.

(more…)
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The power of your thoughts

Success through Positive Thoughts

As someone thinks within himself, so he is (Bible). Are you in control of your thoughts and if not, would you like to know how you can? Thoughts are delicate and if managed well can lead one to an overall healthy life. Studies in more recent times have shown that the control of your thoughts and the effects of that has been able to generate a more happy, healthy, and successful life.

The ability to train and control your thoughts results in self -development. Every person, no matter what their background or their lifestyle have the common theme of thoughts. There is no such thing as idle thoughts, for even if one is said to be idle, thinking of nothing, yet there is nothing that he is thinking about – in this sense we have the power to think right and have the power that leads to transformation. Ernest Holmes, in every man is king states that “Mental control is the only self -control, and those who learn it early escape with unhappiness and many hard experiences which darken the lives of those who fail to learn that greatest of all lessons.”

The mind has power over how we can navigate through the various aspects of life – the opportunities it presents, the challenges it brings up and opposition, both internal and external can be a crucial determinant of how well we adjust to life in general.

Science based on thoughts and experiments around it have proved that our thinking can affect the way we deal with everyday life. Our thoughts can either be strong and positive or debilitating.

An experiment by Alia Crum and Ellen Langer told hotel room attendants that their work provided the recommended exercise for a healthy lifestyle. On an average a hotel room attendant cleans about 15 rooms per day, each room taking between 20-30 minutes to complete. However, many found it difficult to either maintain a healthy weight and with many underlying health challenges. (The physical activity of 30 minutes per day for a healthy life meets the Surgeon General’s recommendation) This treatment group that were intimated that their daily work meets the standard of daily physical exercise, were monitored for four weeks as opposed to the control group who were not told the same. People in the treatment group lost weight; their body fat percentages, waist-to-hip ratios, and systolic blood pressure dropped. People in the control group showed no such improvement. These improvements happened even though the hours, diet and amount of exercise outside the work remained the same.

This is just one of many such experiments where the mind and the thoughts we think, and dwell upon can either cause us to be successful in what we do, or perhaps the cause for us losing focus and an ability to stay the course. This we call as ‘Mindset.’  

changing mindsets

If it is possible for mindsets to change us, then is it possible that what we choose to set our minds on, can enable us to succeed and improve our abilities. While it is true that we may not be able to move objects by just focussing on them with our thoughts (some profess they can do that), but we can surely bring about change to our own creativity, our ability to thrive rather than just survive.

Dr. Carol S Dweck an American psychologist coined the terms “A fixed mindset” vs “A Growth Mindset.” In her book: Mindset-How you can fulfil your potential, she states that the view you adopt for yourself profoundly affects the way you lead your life.

A fixed mindset is a belief that your qualities are carved in stone. It, therefore, creates an urgency to prove yourself repeatedly. On the other hand, the growth mindset, is based on the belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts. (Pgs 13,14).

Some of the features of a fixed mindset are as follows: avoid challenges, shy away from things you do not know, unable to handle feedback or criticisms, intelligence and talent is static and does not develop post birth, the need to always prove yourself, the success of other people does not sit with you well, regarding failure as the limit of ability.

The features of a growth mindset are as follows: view challenges as an opportunity, acknowledge and embrace weakness, criticisms are constructive and received well, intelligence and talent are dynamic and ever improving, take inspiration from others success.

Benjamin Barber an eminent political theorist once said, “I don’t divide the world into the weak and the strong, or the successes and the failures, those who make it or those who don’t. I divide the world into learners and non-learners.”

to learn or not to learn

What makes one a learner? Better still, what defines one as a non-learner? The ability to focus on things and lessons that enable growth or one that is static. The mind plays a huge role in what we consider as the learning-curve. This is different for different people and the analysis of it may provide different answers. However, thoughts that often dwell on the ‘stretch’ (the point of resistance that causes one to keep moving in the direction of progress), provide results that often lead to success.

The brain can adapt, adopt, and change to new learnings and this concept of brain change in neuroscience is called – ‘Neuroplasticity’. If you focus on a certain task at hand (long term or short term) and work hard at it – your brain can form new connections in the brain that wire together and fire together. This in turn provides the competencies to fulfil and achieve the said task.

success is personal

Therefore, the key to success is not defined by what others suggest success to look like for you. Neither is it based on what others believe you can or cannot accomplish. It is all ‘YOU’. You have the power to unlock the potential within you. What you do need is a habit of forming a healthy thought practice. Here I would like to mention just a couple of ways you can add success to your life, both professional and personal:

  • Replace Self -limiting beliefs with empowering beliefs: This is not recommended as a top of the hat – easy to get application. This requires conscious and focussed thought. You must be willing to transfer the energy from your mind that belittles you and puts you in the shack, to an energy that lifts you up and sets you free from your limiting beliefs.
  • Learn a new Behaviour: Everything learned can be un-learned and everything un-learned can be learned. To create a new behaviour is to form new habits. To form new habits, you need the right information. It is believed to be true that ‘information is power’. I choose to believe that ‘right information is power.’ What do you train your mind with – the GIGO (Garbage In garbage Out) principle is quite a strong force to reckon with. What you feed your mind, that will it spew out. It will affect every bit of you – your network of influence, your social circle, your family connections etc.
  • Question your Perception: Perception is not fixed. It varies from person to person. The objective view of life differs based on circumstances. Perceptions are personal and often opinionated. To allow success to permeate what we do, we must ask the question, “How does this situation look”? “How can I benefit most from this situation?” We often look at the world through filter lenses and make judgements about things around us based on the same. While they may be effective personally, and in some situation, we must bear in mind that they are just filters. It does not represent our situations any different than we would like it.
  • Read Constructively: Reading is a habit that strengthens your mind and enables you to think creatively. While many enjoy reading in some form or the other. What remains true and important is, what we choose to read? I choose to believe constructive reading can form an integral part of our overall well being and a healthy thought life can flow out through it. Make reading a habit – it not only creates a scope of greater understanding, but it also influences your ability to speak and communicate in the chosen language with ease. Reading has been proven to keep your mind young, healthy, and sharp. Reading reduces stress and aids in sleep readiness. It lowers blood pressure and heart rate; it also fights depression symptoms. With this inexhaustive list, we can accede that reading is of crucial importance and must not be neglected. Several studies show that reading can also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The thinking mind will be a healthy mind.
  • Grow Consistently: Growth is the beauty of everything living. If something is alive, it must very well grow, if there is no growth then that could be the very definition of death or stagnancy. The opportunities to grow are numerous, based on the opportunities we are willing to seize. “Stay hungry, stay foolish,” a quote made famous by Steve Jobs, which he originally took from the last page of the Whole earth catalogue. It is a reminder to stay motivated, to keep an open state of learning and to subscribe to a growth mindset. Consider every challenge a level up to success and every failure an opportunity to learn.

Success through positive thoughts is never cumbersome. They can and will present new tangents of learning, growth and often failures. The key is to be persistent and have an attitude to learn and grow at every step.  It will generate a greater productivity both personally and professionally.

“Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish.”

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