Personal Development

Need Motivation? Remember Personal Development isn’t Just Personal

Sometimes I forget that personal development isn’t just personal.

While becoming a better emotional and spiritual version of myself certainly benefits me, it also has a ripple effect. Everyone I interact with, from my closest friends and family to the checkout clerk I meet at the grocery store, is impacted by who I am and who I’m becoming.

I’m not saying I can make anyone grow or change. That power lies with each of us alone. And like you, I’m bombarded on a daily basis by bad examples of how to be human. But my personal development efforts can help me set a good example of what a healthy, growing human can look like. Though wildly imperfect, I can still be a useful guide for others to follow, as so many have done for me.

When I’m tempted to slack off on a personal development habit, be it better eating/sleeping/exercising, volunteering, nurturing meaningful relationships, spending time in prayer and meditation or sharpening my mind, I remind myself of this quote:

Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.

karen salmansohn

Remembering that my personal development journey is for the good of others as well as for myself often gives me the motivation I need to keep going.

So how about you? What kind of example are you setting for those around you? When people look at your life, are they inspired to become better versions of themselves? Do your words, actions, attitudes, behavior and how you spend your time, money and energy leave people discouraged by humanity or filled with hope at what an intentional person can be?

Your life gives off ripples. Everyone around you is effected. Choose simple, healthy habits for your heart, mind, body and spirit. Work them into your routine. Ask others to keep you accountable. Remember the quote above. If you do, you’ll not only enjoy a more peaceful, energized and fulfilling life, but you’ll help others do the same. And you’ll take another step toward Becoming Yourself.

Matt McMann

Matt McMann writes books for children and the personal development blog Becoming Yourself (becomingyourself.net).

Share
Published by
Matt McMann

Recent Posts

Finding a “Still Water” Mind

It’s been a turbulent month.  An exhausting week of author school visits capped by a…

3 days ago

Want a More Fulfilling Life? Embrace Your Mortality

It’s happening quickly. Two years ago, there were eight people on my dad’s side of…

1 week ago

Define Your Own Win

I was driven.  Once I had the goal of being a traditionally published author in…

2 weeks ago

The Frustratingly Beautiful Practice of Silence

I have monkey mind.  In my practice of silence, rather than the calm stillness I…

3 weeks ago

A Raw and Honest Take on Prayer

She captivated the crowd. The thousand of us in the hotel ballroom hung on every…

1 month ago

Want to Live Your Dream? Find Real Life Examples

I’m a routine guy. I thrive in habits. This can be a real strength, as…

1 month ago