As the kids head back to school, vacations end, and routines fall back into place, it seems like the perfect time to put some meaningful focus back onto you. In fact, September is Self-Improvement Month, so why not think about how you can make some positive changes in your life?
Remember, self-improvement doesn’t have to be about huge, life-altering changes. It can simply be a commitment to getting more sleep or taking 15 minutes out of your day to enjoy a hobby you love if that’s what you feel would make you a happier and more content person. The idea is to really search your heart and determine what positive changes you can and should make in your life.
Only you know in what areas you need improvement, but consider these suggestions as you ponder the wonderful new changes you’re going to make this month:
- Learn a new language or skill. Maybe you’ve always wanted to be able to speak French, or you would love to bake and decorate the perfect cake. There are courses for this! Take the plunge and learn something you’ve always wanted to be able to do.
- Consider going to therapy. If you’re wondering if you might benefit from therapy, the odds are probably good that you would or you wouldn’t be thinking about it at all. Remember, if you have a headache you do whatever is necessary to make yourself feel better without giving it a second thought. Don’t you owe it to yourself to treat yourself with the same respect and compassion when you’re struggling with a mental health issue too—even if you think it’s minor?
- Make time for self-care. You can’t fill someone else’s cup when your own is empty, so remember to take care of yourself first so that you have the mental and physical energy to take care of those who need you. Have a home spa weekend, lock yourself in your room and read for 20 minutes every day, limit exposure to toxic people, learn to say no — whatever it takes to bring yourself some moments of peace.
- Life a healthier lifestyle. Maybe that means getting more exercise, visiting your doctor for a check-up and age-appropriate screenings, managing your stress or focusing on eating healthier food.
- Make new social connections. Staying connected to others is so critical to our mental and physical well being, especially as we age. Reach out to old friends and family members, or find ways to meet new people.
- Journal. Remember that feeling of writing in your diary when you were young? It was so freeing and powerful to get all your innermost thoughts out of your head and onto the pages. Check out these surprising 10 benefits of journaling, then grab your pen and get started!
- Meditate. Meditation and mindfulness have incredible mental and physical health benefits.
- Volunteer. Not only does volunteering make others feel good, it helps you feel better too. Having a purpose, making a difference and seeing your time and effort change lives is a wonderful thing. Visit MyForesters.com to find out about volunteer opportunities right in your own community.
If you’ve been looking for a sign or wanting a nudge in the right direction, this is it. Take the steps you’ve been wanting to take during Self-Improvement month and change your life for the better.
417743 CAN/US (09/19)
