Self-Development: What It Means, and 3 Tips to Achieve It.

The path to personal growth.

An image of a woman with hands out in front used for the cover of a self-development blog post

Self-development is a life-long journey that means different things through life phases. Personal and professional growth goes hand-in-hand; however, there are many ways to grow, and all come with benefits. Since it's such a broad topic, it can be hard to determine where to start. This article covers self-development basics and tips to jumpstart your self-development journey.

What Is Self-Development

Self-development is the process of growing and improving yourself on a personal level. Hence, it can involve increasing your knowledge and skills, developing positive habits, and improving relationships. Self-development is a lifelong process, and everyone can benefit from it.

Self-Development includes:

  • Self-awareness

  • Self-acceptance

  • Self-responsibility

  • Self-management

Self-awareness

Self-awareness is knowing and understanding your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is the ability to reflect on your experience and see yourself as separate from others. Self-awareness lets you know your needs and wants and helps you understand how others perceive you.

Self-acceptance

Self-acceptance is accepting yourself as you are, despite any shortcomings—being at peace with your flaws and quirks and being comfortable in your skin. 

Someone comfortable with who they are gives themselves grace. It means that you are kind to yourself. It is the foundation of happiness and self-confidence.

Self-Responsibility

Self-responsibility is the ability to take ownership of one's life and make decisions that will positively affect that life. It means recognizing that you are the only one who can change the course of your life and that you are responsible for your happiness, success, and well-being.

What Is Self-Management

Self-management describes when you can take control of your life. A self-managed person is capable of setting and prioritizing goals. They also follow through on their commitments and can pivot when needed. Directing both your personal and professional life takes this skill set. Those successful in one or both areas hold themselves accountable and have the self-awareness to know their strengths and challenge areas.

Benefits of Self-Development

Self-development is a well-spent investment with great returns. Growth comes from learning new things, forming new skills, and improving your appearance in all facets of life. Its benefits include:

  • A better understanding of yourself

  • Improved self-esteem

  • Increased adaptability and ability to understand others 

  • A better outlook on your career 

  • A greater sense of purpose

  • An Increased level of happiness

3 Ways to Start Your Self-Development Journey

Self-improvement can increase anxiety. Just remember, it does not have to be far-reaching, and since you will be experiencing growth for life, pacing yourself will make the experience more enjoyable. Besides, the more realistic you are with your goals, the better your chance of success. Here are three tips to help you on your quest.

1. Get the support you need

The first step is often the hardest, but you can start with support if unsure how to start this journey. Hiring a life coach can help you jumpstart your growth. They can help uncover your deepest desires, self-limiting beliefs, and purpose. A coach can give you the tools to help you with doubts and to help support your progress. We all deserve support, which can make a difference between stalling or pushing forward.

2. Find support online

In today's digital world, joining an online community to support your growth is easy. If you prefer virtual support, there our public, private, paid, and free options such as a peer support group, a Facebook group, or an accountability app like Groove.

If you prefer an in-person group, consider physical meetup groups, a course at your local college, or joining a community organization.

3. Read self-help reading materials and take self-development courses.

There are many self-help reading materials and self-development courses available that can help you with your personal development. Consequently, these materials and methods can provide information and tools to help you improve your self-awareness. 

They can also help you manage your emotions, set and achieve goals, and improve your relationships. You can use available resources to enhance your personal development and reach your full potential.

Conclusion

Research does show that self-development can lead to various positive outcomes, such as increased happiness, life satisfaction, and self-esteem. Self-development can also lead to increased productivity, creativity, and resilience. 

Daley Word is committed to helping the world by encouraging its readers to join in on self-development. And thus, freeing their mind, body, and soul. So, follow us on social media for additional tips as you begin your self-development journey.