The expression ‘personal growth’ is very commonly used in the 21st century. In fact, it is so popular a term that actually, many of us have lost sight of exactly what it means.
The expression ‘personal growth’ is very commonly used in the 21st century. In fact, it is so popular a term that actually, many of us have lost sight of exactly what it means. What exactly does it mean to ‘personally grow’? And how can this growth be implemented in real life, using practical methods?
You’ve Seen it in the Self Improvement Books…But What is Personal Growth Exactly?
Personal growth, or personal development as it is sometimes called, refers to the practice of both reflective self-assessment and action; bringing about positive change in the life of the individual practicing it.
According to many an inspirational magazine and self-improvement books alike, personal growth is not a singular event, but a life-long process. The theory of personal growth focuses around reflection of all aspects of your life, from career, to family, to everything else in between. There is no ‘end-goal’, and personal growth shouldn’t be treated as something with a final concluding outcome. Instead, it’s a continual path towards self-improvement and discovering a healthier, happier you.
Practical Tips to Encourage Personal Development
For many people, regardless of how many spiritual magazines, (UK or otherwise) you may have read, or how many CBT self help books you may have ploughed through; the concept of putting positive personal growth into practice can feel like a complicated prospect.
Here are a few practical tips to help you to focus on positive self-reflection and to develop personal growth.
1. Talk to family and friends.
Sometimes, it can be incredibly tricky to assess your own life. Instead, try asking friends and family to create lists about you; highlighting what they consider to be your strengths and also what they think are your weaknesses. It’s not necessarily an easy process, but it can provide valuable clarification of areas of your life that you may decide you want to focus on for self development.
2. Don’t just read self improvement books,
take notes and then take action! Instead of passively reading CBT self help books or spiritual magazines, approach them in a more active manner. Take notes, highlighting areas that resonate with your own life. Use these notes to formulate an action plan to bring about positive change.
3. Be open with your goals and your progression.
Communication, as with any other area of life, is incredibly important to successful personal development. If you have a specific goal in mind, for example, regarding your career, then be open and tell people about it. Giving voice to your aims is a great way of helping you to achieve them. Likewise, if you have an ‘off’ day, don’t be afraid to confide in people; who can provide much needed moral support!
Most importantly, remember that personal growth is exactly that. Personal. It’s up to you to make it happen, and it’s up to you to be pro-active in bringing about positive change in your life. With the help of valued friends and family, the odd inspirational magazine or two, and a lot of positivity, you’ll soon reap the rewards and be well on your way on the path of personal development.
To work with Bernardo go to www.bernardo-moya.com or buy his new book The Question Find Your True Purpose www.thequestion.co