Read often
Take up a new hobby
Register for training
Determine the required skills
Try a new schedule
Commit to an exercise routine
Set big goals
Change your mindset
Find a mentor
- Read often
Regular reading is one of the easiest and most effective ways to learn. By reading often, you will gain more knowledge about your field and develop a strategic vision that will help you move forward in your career. Try to find new sources that will expand your knowledge. Find authors from different countries and cultures or read alternative perspectives. Consider challenging yourself to learn a new language that will bring you even more reading. For example, you can make a list of the best books, blogs, and publications in your field, and then set aside time each day to read them. 2. Take up a new hobby
Work and family responsibilities may be your top priorities, but a hobby or two is essential to creating work-life balance. Sports, crafts, and other activities can help you take a break from your normal responsibilities and encourage learning and growth outside of work. Think carefully about how you spend your time. You might be able to join a sports team, learn a new skill, or plan short vacation trips with just a few free hours a week. 3. Register for training
While you can learn new skills on your own, joining a class can add structure to your learning. By joining an after-school class or company-sponsored training, you can practice hard or soft skills with the help of an expert. To get started, you can sign up for a one-time training session that takes place after work. After completing one session, consider enrolling in a multi-session workshop or longer class. Choose your topic carefully by defining the specific goals you want to achieve. 4. Identify the skills needed
If you're focused on advancing your career, identifying the skills you need for advanced positions can help you improve. In addition to standard skills, look out for emerging skills that can help you gain a competitive advantage. Try reading industry publications to learn about the most in-demand skills in your field. Consider enrolling in a course to learn these skills so you can be at the top of your field. 5. Try a new schedule
Adopting a new schedule can offer a different perspective on how you use your time. By rethinking the way you spend your day and identifying your most productive hours, you can find new ways to make the most of your time. For example, try waking up an hour earlier during the week to give yourself time to learn, grow and develop. You can also reserve an hour for reading before bed, or an hour for a new hobby in the middle of the day. 6. Commit to an exercise routine
Regular exercise can improve your health, extend your life and improve your quality of life at work and outside. Adopting an exercise routine can also clear your mind and help you relax, which can improve your productivity. Consider exercising a few hours a week for the month. Pick a sport or form of exercise you enjoy and consider teaming up with a gym buddy to make the process fun. Enjoy yourself every time you complete an exercise. If you miss a workout, try to resume your regular workout routine as soon as possible to develop a new healthy habit. Read more: Setting goals to improve your career - Set yourself big goals
On a typical day, you may have several small goals to accomplish. These can include anything from getting to work on time and finishing a project to having dinner with the family and finding relaxation together. You may even have long-term goals, such as saving for a down payment on a house or a vacation next summer. Improve yourself by thinking bigger. For example, think about what you want to achieve in the next five years, such as moving into a higher paying career or starting your own startup. Next, set Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-Sensitive (SMART) goals to develop a plan to achieve those goals. Read more: SMART goals: definition and examples - Change your mindset
Take action to change your thinking. If you change your thinking, you may find that you have more control over your circumstances than you previously thought. Knowing what you can control and what you can't can help you improve your quality of life. For example, you could start by questioning the status quo and any assumptions about your life situation. Ask yourself why you believe what you do and try to rethink the truth behind your beliefs. 9. Find a mentor
The pursuit of self-improvement can be more rewarding if you have a guide to show you the way. Whether you need professional inspiration or expert help, finding a mentor can help you achieve your biggest goals. To find a mentor, think about who you admire or who you want to be in 10 years. Look for a professional with excellent management skills and long-term experience in your field. Consider a mentor who can provide you with the knowledge you need to achieve your goals.
Credits to sources:
www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/ways-to-improve-yourself
https://unsplash.com/s/photos/improve