The idea of “self-development” is one that is often discussed, particularly since the advent of the Internet Age and its ease of access to information.

Most people want to be better. They naturally want to “develop” themselves.

But exactly what does self-development mean?

If you’ll indulge me for a few moments, let’s take a closer look at what self-development is, some ways you can improve it, and what this may look like for you.

What Is self-development?

In the simplest terms, self-development refers to ways you can enhance and boost yourself. To become the best version of yourself, you need to focus on putting in hard, intentional work.

Self-development is really a journey—one that will last your lifetime.

1. Inquire

Ask yourself about your current position in life, and the way you think or feel about yourself. Is there anything you would like to change, and if so, what is it?

Consider this stage as performing an inventory. You are “taking stock” of where you are and considering where you would like to be.

A simple—but not easy—exercise is to ask the following questions:

·       Who am I?

·       Where (or what) do I want to be?

·       How am I going to get there?

Write or “journal” about your thoughts, moods, and habits. Get your mind clear and focused and take some time to observe your habits.

Note the things that continually crop up, particularly those you want to change.

2. Inspire

Once you have a better idea of what changes are in store, the next step is to get inspired to make those changes. Consider first changing the media you consume and the people you follow.

Perhaps join a new group or enroll in a new class. Start out by writing down or even drawing a picture of what your dream life looks like. (http://OLeary.Coach for more on that front.)

At this stage of your self-development journey, you should now be focused on making those changes you committed to. It is time to now motivate yourself to take the next steps.

3. Intention

Intentionality can seem a little more complicated. It’s not, though.

Visualize what you want your new life to look like. What feelings or emotions will be a part of it?

What specific ambitions do you have? How do you want to walk through each day?

For example, you could state that your intention is: “Today, I will speak calmly and clearly in every interaction,” or “I will focus on my breathing.”

4. Imagine Your New Life

The next step is to visualize your life with these new intentions you have set forth. Essentially, make a detailed daydream of your ideal life, fueled by your intentions.

One way to complete this step is by writing out your perfect day.

Where do you wake up? What do you eat? Who are you with? How do you feel? What clothes do you wear?

Don’t be afraid to go deep here. The more detailed your imagined future, the stronger your visualization.

5. Implement Your Work

Once you have done the prep, it is time to implement your vision by making substantial changes. For example, if you decide that you need a fresh start, guess what? It is now time to move to a new place and try something new.

Want to be proud of your body? Then look in the mirror and tell yourself how you are going to fulfill that vision. Specifically. Now.

This important step in the process will take you from idea to vision, then on to real, tangible results.

The self-development journey is one that will be with you for a lifetime, however. Keep in mind, there are no quick fixes or easy answers.

By using these techniques, you will be on your way toward “manifesting” your imagined future, bringing it to life before your very eyes.

As always,
Brian

P.S. – If you’re having trouble starting, you are not alone. But that doesn't mean you shouldn’t get going immediately.

I often say, “It’s the start that stops most people.” It’s not something original to me, however. I’ve heard the quote attributed to Hall of Fame football coach Don Shula and several others.

But how do we break through the “start?” In football and in life, it’s about becoming “mentally tough.”

Developing mental toughness is one of the key factors in building a resilient strain within your character, allowing you to conquer fears and persist through adversity—real or imagined.

Mental toughness, in other words, separates the greats from the mere mortals.

You shouldn’t want to be “mere” anything.

Recently, I wrote a short ebook called Mental Toughness – Mastering Resilience for Success. It won't give you all the secrets to becoming a master tactician on the gridiron like Coach Shula, but you'll be on your way to figuring out a plan to further develop your own mental toughness.

…all for less than four bucks.