Communication is the lifeblood of relationships, both personal and professional. However, barriers to effective communication can hinder the exchange of ideas, lead to misunderstandings, and strain relationships. π«
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore common barriers to communication and provide practical strategies to overcome them.
Whether you’re navigating workplace dynamics, fostering better connections with friends and family, or seeking to improve your overall communication skills, these insights will help you break down the walls that impede effective communication. π
Let’s get started!
Understanding Barriers to Communication:
1. Lack of Clarity and Precision:
One of the fundamental barriers to effective communication is a lack of clarity. Vague or imprecise messages can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. It’s essential to articulate your thoughts clearly, using precise language and providing relevant details to ensure your message is accurately received. π
2. Emotional Barriers:
Emotional barriers, such as stress, anxiety, or strong emotions, can impede communication. When individuals are emotionally charged, they may struggle to express themselves clearly or be receptive to others. Managing emotions and creating a calm environment are crucial for effective communication.
3. Cultural and Language Differences:
Cultural and language diversity can create barriers to communication. Differences in language proficiency, communication styles, and cultural norms may lead to misunderstandings.
To overcome this barrier, it’s essential to foster cultural awareness, be patient with language differences, and use clear and straightforward language. π
4. Noise and Distractions:
Physical and environmental factors, such as noise and distractions, can interfere with communication. Whether it’s background noise, technological disruptions, or a busy environment, minimising distractions enhances the clarity and effectiveness of communication. π
5. Assumptions and Stereotypes:
Preconceived assumptions and stereotypes can create barriers by influencing how we interpret messages. Avoid making assumptions about others’ perspectives or intentions. Instead, approach communication with an open mind, seeking to understand diverse viewpoints without judgment. π§
6. Lack of Feedback:
Communication is a two-way process, and the absence of feedback can be a significant barrier. Encourage open dialogue, actively seek input from others, and provide constructive feedback. Creating a feedback loop ensures that messages are received and understood and not going in one ear and out the other.
7. Poor Listening Skills:
Ineffective listening is a pervasive barrier to communication. When individuals fail to actively listen, they miss important details, leading to misunderstandings. Improving listening skills involves giving full attention, avoiding interruptions, and practicing empathy to understand the speaker’s perspective. π
8. Power Dynamics and Hierarchies:
Unequal power dynamics or hierarchies within relationships or organisations can stifle open communication. Those in lower positions may feel hesitant to express their thoughts or concerns. Fostering an inclusive and open communication culture helps overcome these power-related barriers. π«
Strategies to Overcome Communication Barriers:
1. Prioritise Clarity in Communication:
- Articulate Clearly: Use clear and concise language when conveying your message. Avoid jargon or overly complex terms that may confuse the listener.
- Provide Context: Offer relevant background information to ensure your message is fully understood. Context helps the listener connect the dots and interpret your message accurately.
- Encourage Clarification: Create an environment where others feel comfortable seeking clarification. Encouraging questions can help address potential misunderstandings. π€
2. Emotional Intelligence and Regulation:
- Self-Awareness: Develop an understanding of your own emotions. Recognise how emotions may impact your communication style and be mindful of potential emotional triggers.
- Empathy: Practice putting yourself in others’ shoes. Empathetic communication involves understanding others’ perspectives and responding with sensitivity.
- Stress Management: Learn effective stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to regulate emotions during challenging conversations.
Want to learn more about emotional intelligence? Check out this blog here: How to practice emotional regulation – tips for adults on how to cope
3. Cultural Sensitivity Training:
- Cultural Awareness: Educate yourself about different cultures, communication styles, and customs. A culturally aware approach fosters understanding and respect.
- Language Simplification: In multilingual settings, use simple language and avoid idioms or slang that may not translate well. Visual aids can also help enhance understanding. π€
- Inclusivity: Create an inclusive environment that values and celebrates cultural diversity. Encourage open discussions about cultural differences to promote understanding.
4. Create a Distraction-Free Environment:
- Choose Appropriate Settings: Select quiet and conducive environments for important conversations. Minimse disruptions by choosing a location with minimal background noise.
- Digital Etiquette: In digital communication, turn off notifications and ensure a stable internet connection. This helps maintain focus during virtual meetings or discussions. π§βπ»
- Active Presence: Demonstrate active presence by giving your full attention to the speaker. Make eye contact and eliminate distractions to signal that you are fully engaged.
5. Challenge Assumptions and Stereotypes:
- Open-Mindedness: Approach conversations with an open mind, avoiding preconceived notions. Be willing to challenge your assumptions and consider alternative perspectives.
- Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Actively promote diversity and inclusion in your personal and professional spheres. Encourage dialogue that challenges stereotypes and fosters a culture of acceptance.
- Educate Others: Share information that challenges common stereotypes. Education is a powerful tool in breaking down barriers and promoting understanding. π
6. Establish a Feedback Culture:
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where open dialogue is encouraged. Create channels for constructive feedback and ensure that all team members feel comfortable expressing their opinions. π£οΈ
- Regular Check-Ins: Conduct regular check-ins to gather feedback on communication processes. Identify areas for improvement and implement changes based on the feedback received.
- Model Constructive Feedback: Lead by example by providing constructive feedback. Demonstrating how to give and receive feedback creates a culture of continuous improvement.
7. Enhance Listening Skills:
- Active Listening Techniques: Practice active listening by giving your full attention to the speaker. Avoid interrupting and provide feedback to demonstrate that you are engaged.
- Paraphrasing: Paraphrase the speaker’s message to confirm understanding. This not only clarifies information but also signals to the speaker that you are actively processing their words. π¬
- Empathetic Listening: Cultivate empathetic listening by trying to understand the emotions behind the words. Consider the speaker’s perspective and respond with empathy.
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8. Promote Inclusive Communication:
- Equal Participation: Encourage equal participation in discussions, regardless of hierarchical positions. Create platforms where everyone has the opportunity to voice their opinions and ideas.
- Team-building Activities: Foster a sense of unity within the team through team-building activities. Shared experiences can break down barriers and create a more cohesive group.
- Leadership Modeling: Leaders should model inclusive communication. By demonstrating openness to diverse perspectives and ideas, leaders set the tone for an inclusive organisational culture. π¬
Real-Life Applications:
1. Workplace Communication:
- Clear Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels within the workplace. This includes well-defined reporting structures, open-door policies, and regular team meetings.
- Conflict Resolution Workshops: Conduct workshops on conflict resolution to equip employees with the skills needed to navigate disagreements effectively. Emphasise active listening and constructive feedback.π
2. Personal Relationships:
- Quality Time: In personal relationships, allocate quality time for meaningful conversations. Create an environment where both partners feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions.
- Shared Activities: Engage in shared activities to strengthen bonds. Activities that foster communication, such as cooking together or participating in a hobby, provide opportunities for connection. π¨βπ©βπ§
Do you want to know your partner better? Check out our Relationship Planner.
3. Conflict Resolution:
- Mediation Training: Provide mediation training for individuals involved in conflict resolution. Equipping team members with mediation skills enhances their ability to facilitate productive discussions. π§ββοΈ
- Establishing Common Ground: Identify common ground during conflicts. Finding shared values or goals can serve as a foundation for resolution and create a more collaborative atmosphere.
Conclusion:
Effectively overcoming barriers to communication involves a multifaceted approach that integrates self-awareness, empathy, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. By implementing these strategies in various aspects of our lives, we can dismantle communication barriers and pave the way for stronger connections, collaboration, and understanding. π€
As we actively apply these strategies, we contribute to creating a culture of effective communicationβone where diverse perspectives are valued, feedback is embraced, and relationships thrive. Breaking down the walls that hinder communication is a transformative journey that leads to more meaningful connections and a more harmonious and connected world.
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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It seems like every other week thereβs a new article or social media post about the importance of letting go and moving on and how to let things go. But what does it mean to let things go? π
Does it feel freeing to be rid of something that no longer serves you? Or is it more difficult than it sounds? How do you know when itβs time to let go and move on from something? Are there any repercussions if you donβt let go of the past?
If youβve ever felt like there are people, places, or things that have been holding you back from living your best life, this blog post is for you! Read on to learn why letting go is an important step toward self-love and self-acceptance. β€οΈ
What Is Letting Go?
When youβre ready to let go of something, youβre letting go of the idea that it has any kind of power over you. (Read that line again)
Youβre being honest with yourself and your past actions and allowing them to be something they are β nothing more, nothing less. π ββοΈ
βWhen youβre letting go of something, youβre acknowledging that itβs not holding you back anymore,β says Psychology Today blogger, Dr. Nikki Goldstein. βYouβre not getting rid of it, youβre ending the attachment you have to it and refocusing on yourself.β
So, what is letting go exactly? π€
Itβs the process of releasing something that no longer serves you, whether youβve outgrown it or donβt need it any longer. It can be difficult to let go of things that have meaning for you, but if you recognize when youβre holding on too tightly, you can begin to let go. In order to let go, you must first recognize when youβre holding on.
Why Is Letting Go Important?
For many people, accepting that theyβve been holding on to things that donβt serve them is a major step toward growth and self-acceptance.
People often cling to things and beliefs from their past because they feel unworthy, unsure, or insecure.
They may feel like they donβt deserve better circumstances, a better partner, or a different outcome in a certain situation. So, they try to hold on to the past in order to maintain these feelings of insecurity and worthlessness. π
Letting go of these unneeded things and people can help you feel more confident, secure, and free. It can also help you feel like you are living in the present moment instead of in the past and future.
Being present in the moment allows you to feel more happier and grateful for how far you’ve come in your life already. You’re able to make rational decisions using a clear mind rather than old habits and worrying about the future infiltrating your decision. π§
Why is It Hard to Let Go?
For many people, letting go feels like a waste of energy, money and time. After all, youβve spent so much time and effort trying to hold on to a certain person, place, or thing, so why would you let it go? π
Letting go can be a scary process because you donβt want to feel like youβre βwastingβ the time youβve spent holding on to something that you no longer need. But, if you let go of unneeded things, people, and beliefs, you will be able to spend that time and energy on things that bring you more joy and satisfaction.
But how do I stop feeling like I wasted my time!? π₯²
The thing is… you didn’t waste your time. It was a lesson you needed to learn, it was something you needed to experience, it was something you needed to go through and end up on the other side of it.
Not everything in your life is going to be permanent. I know it’s hard to let something you thought was going to be permanent go, but you’ll be better and stronger for it.
How to Let Things Go
Try to remember that every experience, person, and place in your life has a purpose.
While you may have loved this person, place, or thing in the past, they are no longer serving you in the present. They may not have been the right fit for you, or you may simply have outgrown them. So, try to remember that. π
This may be the hardest part of letting go. It is easy to justify staying in a situation that you know isnβt serving you.
You may feel like youβre letting someone down or that youβre not doing things right if youβre not still using the things or people. But, you must remember that the people and things in your life should be serving you, not holding you back.
It’s a tough internal process but you owe it to yourself to be happy. β€οΈ
Which Things Should You Cut From Your Life?
βWhen you are ready to let go of a relationship or aspect of your life, you need to ask yourself some tough questions,β says Dr. Goldstein. βHave you been letting it control you? Does it bring you joy? Are you letting it hold you back from other things in your life?β
Try to examine each of the relationships, aspects of your life, or things that you think you may want to cut out. βοΈ
Ask yourself if you have been holding on to them because they used to bring you joy, if they have been holding you back from other things in your life, or if they simply no longer fit in with your lifestyle.
RELATED: Check out our Relationship Bundle – Includies romantic and platonic relationship worksheets.
Bottom line: Taking Care of Yourself is a Must!
When you know how to let things go that no longer serve you, youβre essentially freeing your time and energy so that you can focus on what brings you joy. π
Letting go of unneeded things and situations can help you feel lighter, freer, and more in tune with who you are as a person.
It can also help you avoid falling into the trap of getting caught up in the βpursuit of happinessβ, which can be a dangerous trap. βYou canβt put a price tag on happiness, but you can look for things and people that bring you joy and satisfaction,β says Dr. Goldstein. βLetting go does not have to mean losing something β it can mean finding something even better.β π
If youβve ever felt like there are people, places, or things that have been holding you back from living your best life, then I hope this blog post help put some things into perspective for you. Letting go is an important step toward self-love and self-acceptance. It’s time to take that first step.
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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Imagine this: itβs Friday morning and youβre racing against time to finish your dreaded college assignment or office work. While working, youβre mentally scolding yourself for not starting the assignment sooner and procrastinating about it till the very end. π₯²
Guess what… youβre not alone in this struggle. Just like you, your friends, family and colleagues also struggle with deadlines. However, the important thing to note here is – how did you lose track of time and your focus?
Why couldnβt you complete the task as you intended to? Was it the unintentional coffee breaks or the guilty pleasure of skipping work and going out with friends?
Whatever the case may be, it will be comforting for you to learn that everyone has procrastinated in some way or another in their life. The key is to acknowledge when you’re procrastinating and not let it consume your time. In this blog, weβll dive further into how to stop procrastinating and manage your workload both efficiently and effectively.
How to stop procrastinating
Repeat after me: ” I will not let procrastination get in the way of my productivity”. There are plenty of ways to develop healthy productive habits.
All you need to do is imbibe the following learnings in your everyday life and learn to plan your work in a better manner. Letβs take a look at the following points that will help you to stop avoiding discomfort and deal with procrastination.
1. Accept that you have a habit of procrastinating
The first step towards getting rid of your habit of procrastination is to realise that you have this habit. However, a point to note here is that if youβre rescheduling your workload due to any genuine reason such as health issues or personal problems, then it doesnβt fall under the category of procrastination.
Take some time out, focus on your health then get back to it.
When you start putting off your tasks indefinitely because you want to avoid working for a while, that is called procrastination.
Certain situations can lead to this if your day is filled to the brim with low-priority level tasks, you canβt seem to make a decision about your emails, or youβre busy focusing on other unimportant tasks.
It’s easy to get caught off guard when you’re trying to pay attention. Do any of these examples hit home to you?
Start tidying your room π end up finding a book you haven’t seen in a long time and spend the rest of the day reading it.
Start working on a deadline for work π Get caught up rewatching your favourite episode from Breaking Bad
The alarm goes off for you to start your productive day π Spend the next two hours in bed scrolling Twitter
If so, keep reading.
2. Discover why youβre procrastinating
To do away with your habit of procrastination, the next step is to understand why youβre procrastinating.
Is it because you find the given task to be boring? Is it because youβre scared to take on the task? π¨
If itβs the former, then it will be helpful for you to take certain measures to get the task done quickly so that you can enjoy the rest of the day attending to what you love doing. Whether it’s bribing yourself that you’re going to buy that dress you’ve been eyeing for the past 2 weeks if you can complete the task in 2 hours or getting a cheeky takeaway! π
You may also get into the habit of procrastination if you have poor organizational skills. In such a case, make a to-do list and prioritize your tasks accordingly.
Want to become a pro at creating to-do lists and creating meaningful goals you can’t wait to execute? Well my friend, you’re in luck.
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3. Break down your tasks
Getting overwhelmed by big tasks is a serious issue for everyone. You see the task as a whole and wonder how on Earth am I going to get all of that done. The answer: One step at a time. If you want to know how to stop procrastinating when you have a big job ahead of you, then you have to break down your workload into smaller tasks.
Think of those smaller tasks as building blocks to your end goal.
Then continue to focus on just one small task at a time. If you still find yourself procrastinating even after breaking down your workload into smaller tasks, then break down the tasks even more.
Sooner than not, youβll find yourself thinking how simple it was to get done! A great thing about this technique is that it helps make your workload manageable and lets you focus on channelising your abilities to get the job done easily. π
4. Change your working environment
Your productivity can change drastically with a change in environment. This is especially true in a work-from-home situation wherein youβre forced to operate from the same desk and chair all day long. π₯οΈ
Doing the same mundane everyday tasks without any change of environment can make you feel low on energy. Therefore, changing your workspace is a great alternative to break this vicious procrastinating cycle and improve your productivity again.
A workplace environment that used to excite and inspire you earlier might lose its touch after a while.
Therefore, it is important to change up your workplace environment here and there. πͺ΄
It doesn’t have to be a drastic change, it could be something simple like switching your small desk to a larger one that moves up and down that allows you to work standing up.
5. Reward even the smallest accomplishments
I’m going to need you to start applauding yourself for achieving even the simplest and the smallest tasks in a day. To achieve anything big means that you took small, important steps along the way and that’s important to recognise.
In fact, youβd be surprised to learn that the human brain is wired to work better on a reward system. π§
Therefore, once you accomplish even a small task from your workload, then take some time out to reward yourself. Whether that’s with your favorite food or take a 10-minute coffee break or watch an episode of your favorite show.
If you donβt want to reward yourself after every task, then you can even try rewarding yourself after youβre done with your entire to-do list for the day. This will help you feel better about your productivity and also make you feel proud about what youβve achieved! π
6. Reduce the number of decision-making tasks
Having to make too many decisions throughout your day is another major reason behind procrastination.
Having too many questions in your mind about your day will compel you to find answers that will ultimately make you feel tired and lose self-control. Therefore, what you can try and do is make certain decisions ahead of time. ποΈ
For example, if you plan on hitting the gym early the next morning, then plan out your outfit the day before. You can even plan out the most important tasks that need to be done the following day and make a schedule for them accordingly. π
What is important to learn here is that reducing the number of decisions you have to make when you wake up, makes your life a lot simpler and more effective.
P.S Have you taken our short quiz yet? π What does success mean to you?
7. Donβt overcomplicate your tasks
Do you have a task that needs to be done pretty soon but youβre searching for the perfect time to get on with it? Well, I hate to break this to you but thereβs never a perfect time to get a job done. π€·ββοΈ
Granted, there can be a better time than others but perfect? Nah.
And if you keep wasting your time searching for it, then it will be impossible for you to achieve anything, let alone anything worthwhile. One of the biggest reasons behind procrastination is perfectionism.
Realise that thereβs always room for improvement in a task and creating something real should be rewarding enough. π
8. Catch a break
Lastly, you need to stop being too hard on yourself. π ββοΈ
If youβre having a hard time tackling your habit of procrastination, then itβs important to give yourself a break.
Having a low motivation to work on top of being too hard on yourself can further degrade your productivity. π
Therefore, you must try to reschedule your tasks, give yourself a little rejuvenation break and then get back on track the following day. Running yourself into the ground is not the answer.
The Bottom Line
Remember that nobody can procrastinate their way to success and if you want to achieve your dreams, then itβs time for you to acknowledge your pitfalls and create ways to get rid of them.
If you want to learn how to stop procrastinating and improve your productivity and effectiveness at the workplace, then begin imbibing the above habits from today and watch yourself blossom into the person you know you are capable of becoming. π₯°
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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Overworked, fatigued and stressed.
Does this currently sound like you? βΉοΈ
Yes!? well then it’s time to start making your health a priority and create a plan to save yourself from burnout before it completely takes over your personal and professional life.
Patching over the cracks is not a viable solution, it’s time to treat the cause and not the symptom.
Burnouts are a result of a discrepancy between your input and output. For example, sometimes, you may feel that youβre putting a lot of work, heart, and soul into a project but not getting the desired results. The usual answer to this is to work even harder instead of stepping back and figuring out a way to work smarter. π§
Some warning signs of burnout that you must watch out for are stressful personal relationships, health issues such as back pain, hypertension, obesity, cognitive difficulties, fatigue, negative feelings and emotions, lost motivation to work, etc.
Research has proven that certain medical conditions like hypertension, coronary artery disease, and sleep disturbances can stem from extreme forms of burnout.
It’s a “No” from me π ββοΈ
Your stress can bleed into every task that you perform and deteriorate your personal relationships. So if youβre wondering how to stop yourself from burning out, weβve got you covered! Read on to explore the top 10 tips to save yourself from burnout!
1. Disconnect from the World
This is one of the most important tips to save yourself from a much-dreaded burnout and its aftermath. To altogether leave your work behind and give yourself time to rejuvenate, you need to electronically disconnect from the outside world.
It’s all about you. π
Give yourself time to heal from the fatigue youβve experienced all week at work. Make it a habit to designate a specific time of your day to answer emails and other important notifications. This will help you to manage your career better in the long run.
2. Listen to Your Body
You may think that the constant headache youβve been experiencing is merely a result of dehydration or that the pain in your neck is due to a bad sleeping posture.
But, these constant pains and aches could be your bodyβs sign of telling you how stressed it is feeling. Burnout can lead to several clinical manifestations due to stress accumulation. Therefore, it is crucial that you listen to your bodyβs signals and beat the burnout!
Don’t put off taking care of your body or your body will force you to take days off. π
3. Time to Relax
Just like you plan your work schedule, you need to schedule your time to relax as well. To nip the dreadful burnout right in the bud, you need to spare some time from your daily schedule to relax.
Taking out just 30 minutes from your hectic work schedule to read a book, dance, and go for a jog or a walk could do the trick! A good thing about sliding in time to relax in your work schedule is that it gives you something to look forward to!
Want to learn how to prioritise your goals and become a master of routine? Check out the How to set goals and achieve them mini-course!
4. Find Your Support System
Withdrawing from people and going into your own shell might seem like a tempting offer when youβre stressed. However, your closest friends and family members can be your allies in your battle against burnout.
Spending valuable time with friends and family who love and adore you will help alleviate your stress and help you create beautiful memories in life. If youβre unsure about how to deal with the current issues in your life, talking it out with your support system always helps! πͺ
Involving your loved ones in finding a solution to your problems can make you feel supported. It can also help you gain more clarity on the ongoing issues in your life and arrive at a solution much more quickly.
5. Find the Source of Your Burnout
You might feel stuck in a never-ending cycle of burnout if you canβt find the source of it. Exploring the factors in your life that contribute to your daily stress is an important strategy for tackling it.
Most people believe that professional and work-related triggers are the prime reasons behind burnout. However, it could also result from:
- A demanding academic schedule.
- Personal relationship problems where you canβt figure out a solution that works for both parties.
- Taking care of a loved one suffering from a severe medical condition.
Overloading yourself with too many expectations creates an environment where burnout can fester. Ultimately, you reach your breaking point after trying to do way too much on your own, and thatβs exactly when burnout occurs! π¬
The stress that accompanies a single problem is often manageable for most. However, the stress of dealing with multiple out-of-control problems simultaneously overwhelms us.
6. Take a Look at Your Options
Finding a solution to burnout isnβt as straightforward and easy as it may seem. The road to recovery post a stressful breakdown may not be an easy path. However, looking at the options available can guide you through your recovery.
For example, if youβre dealing with a stressful work environment where a boss keeps pestering you with work and doesnβt recognise your efforts, then finding a new job can be the first step towards improving your mental health. πΌ
If you donβt want to leave your current job for financial or any other reasons, you can always talk to the HR department and find a solution.
TAKE OUR QUIZ: What does success mean to you?
7. Set Healthy Boundaries
To manage your stress efficiently and do whatβs right for you, you must set healthy boundaries. For example, if youβre constantly getting too many invitations for new projects, you can take the following measures:
- Hit the pause button.
- Take a moment to breathe and comb through all the information youβve received.
- Ask yourself whether you have the energy and time to give your 100% to this project.
- Ask yourself the value this new project will bring to your life.
Always think about how your “yes” to somebody else’s request is going to affect your life and your workload.
8. Do What Makes You Happy
One of the most vital tips to save yourself from burnout is to do what makes you happy. When you feel drained and overwhelmed with feelings of anger for a job/business you once loved, itβs a good idea to circle back in life and spend some time doing what you love the most. π
Take a pen and paper and jot down your favorite hobbies. Then, reconcile with lost best friends or go out for a hearty dinner with friends and family.
Apologise to your loved ones for snapping at them while you were stressed and engage in some calming activities such as yoga.
9. Self-Compassion Can Go a Long Way
Burnout can lead to piling up feelings of failure in your life. You might start believing that youβre incapable of achieving your dreams and will never succeed in life.
This is because youβve pushed yourself above and beyond what youβre realistically capable of. In times like this, it is essential to remind yourself that itβs okay not to be perfect!
So what if you canβt complete 5 projects at once or canβt top your college exams? Who can do it all, really?
Ultimately, what matters is that you gave your best shot, and you must give yourself a good pat on the back for it because you deserve it. π
10. Take the Help of a Therapist
If you feel that youβre on the verge of a mental breakdown and that the burnout youβre feeling in your daily life is impacting your relationships negatively, then itβs best to talk to a therapist.
With professional guidance to navigate your life in the right direction, you can get over your feelings of depression, hopelessness, and dissatisfaction.
Choosing to address your burnout is the first step toward your journey to recovery. A professional therapist can guide you through the rest of it.
There’s no shame in asking for help.
Final Thoughts – Tips to save yourself from burnout
If youβve been feeling that your daily job or academics are taking a toll on your mental health, then itβs time for you to take a much-needed break.
The above-mentioned tips to save yourself from burnout can be your knight in shining armour in times of stress! So, keep them handy and remember always to keep your mental health ahead of everything else in life!
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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βGratefulness is the key to a happy life that we hold in our hands, because if weβre not grateful, then no matter how much we have we will not be happy- because we will always want to have something else or something moreβ.
Br. David Steindl-Rast
Itβs no secret that practicing gratitude is good for you. Those who have a more grateful personality are in a better position to find satisfaction in life. π§
We all have the ability and opportunity to cultivate gratitude. Rather than complaining about the things you wish you had, reflect on the things you do have.
Quick exercise: Look around you right now and write down/mentally note three things that you can see that you’re grateful for. Whether it’s your sister annoying you from the other side of the room or the comfy bed you’re laying in with your hot water bottle. π₯°
I would say that Iβm pretty good in regards to practicing gratitude, but Iβm becoming a lot better by seeing and feeling the benefits it has. I usually take for granted the legs that I have to walk on, the food I eat every day or the roof over my head. Itβs good to remind yourself of all your blessings.
The other day I filled up a jug of water to put in my car for with windscreen wipers and while I was carrying this heavy jug of water, I stopped to think about all the people in developing countries who would give anything just to take a sip of what I was carrying to put in an inanimate object and it made me feel even more grateful for the life that I have. π₯²Β
βChange your attitude, change your lifeβ
Savouring your positive experiences makes them stick in your brain and increases their benefits to your psyche – and the key is expressing gratitude for the experience. Thatβs one of the ways gratitude and appreciation go hand in hand. β Psychologist Fred Bryant.Β
Showing gratitude is not merely saying βthank youβ when you receive something, we all do that (well we should) but thereβs so much more to it.
Letβs graduate from basic to advanced gratitude. Itβs easy to feel grateful when great things happen, but no-one feels grateful when they find out they didnβt get the job they wanted or the house they wanted. Usually in these moments feeling grateful for anything flies out the window. Rightly so, but guess what? π€
Even in these low moments, there can still be positive outcomes. π
Maybe you didnβt get the job you wanted because thereβs a closer, more stimulating and higher paying job waiting for you, or you didnβt get the house you wanted because your dream home you donβt know about yet is about to go on sale. π‘
Never lose hope.
Daily gratitude habits can help you connect with your sense of inner peace, especially when you need it most. It improves our health and mental well-being, affecting our career and relationships.
Here are a few ways you can start to practice gratitude:
Start a gratitude journal
Choose a time in the day where you have 5-10 minutes to yourself for reflection, whether itβs the first thing you do in the morning, during lunchtime or just before youβre about to go to bed.
Coendure up 3-5 things each day you are currently grateful for. From the small things (the expensive lipstick youβve always wanted has gone on sale/ your favourite flowers are in bloom) to the exceptional (Finding the love of your life/witnessing your childβs first steps). π£
You can choose any notebook but preferably a notebook that stands out to you, as this is a journal you should plan to keep for a very long time so that your future self can thank you for it.
Imagine yourself 5 years from now having kept your journal all that time. How different do you think youβll be?Β Do you think youβll be more positive? Feel less stressed? More enthusiastic about life in general?
OF COURSE!
Take the first steps towards that βfuture youβ today by starting your gratitude journal.
Express in person
Expressing gratitude in person can be extremely effective. Whether itβs face-to-face, over the phone or even through Facetime. Let someone know in detail the impact that they have created in your life.
Your bond will become stronger as the dynamic in your relationship changes and create a long-lasting friendship or partnership.
Itβs often the simplest gesture that speak volumes in showing your gratitude. We all have amazing people in our lives who inspire us and generally make life better by being in it.
It’s time to let them know that before it’s too late. β€οΈ
Live mindfully
Living mindfully requires patience and dedication. It also requires you to break out of old habits and patterned behaviours that make us focus on things we cannot change.
Consciously throughout the day take the time to pay attention to your surroundings and the details of your environment that you take for granted.
Notice the colour of the flowers you walk by every morning or the shape of the leaves that crunch under your feet (Who doesnβt love the sound of a crunchy leaf? π). When you notice the small details of your surroundings, ask yourself questions about why these things are the way they are and not any different.
These questions will allow you to draw deeper into the moment and will help you develop a habit of mindfulness.
RELATED: Want to learn more about mindfulness? Check out me eBook here! >> The keys to self-mastery
Focus on intentions
When you receive a gift or someone has done something nice for you, consider the fact that someone willingly chose to bring positivity into your life even at a cost to themselves. π
Acknowledging other’s thoughtfulness towards you goes a long way toward cultivating an attitude of gratitude.
Being consciously aware of your present moment will help you gain better insights into other peopleβs behaviour, intentions and motives.
Even if you donβt 100% know whether someoneβs intentions are good or bad, itβs always good to assume positive intent.
When we choose to believe positive intent, we find ourselves having better relationships, higher quality communication, stronger bonds of trust and the opportunities for growth are exponential.
What’s your favourite way to practice gratitude?
To summarise, the simple act of expressing gratitude can and will change your life in several different ways. Start your journey towards gratitude enlightenment by jotting down what youβre grateful for and find productive ways to express it using the tips listed in this post.
When was the last time you expressed gratitude and who was it to? Let me know in the comments section!
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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How to raise your standards and live your best life
Sometimes we tend to settle for less than what we deserve in any type of relationship, be it a romantic relationship or a relationship with friends and family. π¨βπ©βπ¦
Itβs an unconscious habit that several people deal with every single day. The reason behind this could be your own insecurities regarding your relationship or issues with your self-esteem.
If you are in a healthy relationship with your loved ones, you will never feel that you are compromising or that your expectations are being shattered. To analyze whether you are living the life of your dreams or a compromise, look around yourself.
Ask yourself these questions:
πIs this where I want to be in my life?
πIs this the life that I always wanted to build for myself?
πAm I working towards building a great life for myself?
If your answer to these questions is no, then youβre not leading a passionate and fulfilling life. Make it your lifeβs motto to not settle for less than what you deserve in terms of your career and your relationships.
If you do not realize your full potential in life, then youβre settling for the better part of it. It might be hard to admit this habit at first, but when you do, itβs time to take the following measures to stop settling for less in your life.
15 Ways To Stop Settling For Less Than What You Deserve In Life
1. Set Boundaries In Your Relationships
If you feel that your family, friends, or romantic partner might be hurting your self-esteem or constantly impacting your life in a negative way, then itβs time to set some boundaries. π ββοΈ But, again, it is imperative that you be assertive about what youβre okay with and what you arenβt.
To be treated well, you need to make your loved ones understand your boundaries and figure out whether theyβre willing to make the requisite changes or not. Ultimately, if your guts tell you that you arenβt being treated well or accepted, then itβs time to move on from that relationship.
2. Stop Being A Pushover
When youβre so desperate to get accepted and appreciated in your friend circle, it is easy to resort to being a pushover. However, any relationship, be it a friendship or a romantic one, works only if both the people involved put 100% of their effort in it.
No one needs half-assed relationships. πββοΈ
Therefore, if you get the feeling that youβre the only one whoβs putting in the majority of hard work, then think of it as a sign that youβre probably around the wrong person.
Itβs better to find someone else who would appreciate your time and efforts and be willing to provide you with the same level of commitment.
3. Stop Making Excuses For Someoneβs Poor Behaviour
If you want to learn how to stop settling in life, you must stop making excuses for anybodyβs poor behavior. If you find yourself frequently making excuses for a close friend or family member, then itβs time to bid goodbye to this habit.
In the long run, this habit can affect your peace of mind and make your relationship with that person toxic.
Peace of mind >>> Having someone you don’t need in your life π€·ββοΈ
Instead of making excuses for your loved ones, try to have a chat with them about what hurts you about their behavior.
If that person invalidates your feelings instead of appreciating them, itβs probably because youβve been settling for less than what you deserve.
4. Donβt Think Of Being Alone As An Abandonment
If you find yourself alone in certain situations, it doesnβt mean that your loved ones have abandoned you or that something is wrong with you. π¬
Instead, you must learn how to be alone with yourself without being burdened by lousy friendships or other relationships.
This will not only teach you to be independent in life but also boost your self-esteem in the long run. Being comfortable with who you are is one of the first steps you must take if you want to stop settling for less in your life.
RELATED: Ready to get out of your comfort zone and experience the life you know you deserve? Yes!? Then this is the mini-course for you π
5. Express Your Hopes, Desires, And Expectations
You canβt expect the people around you to treat you the way you want them to if you donβt fully communicate your hopes, desires, and expectations to them.
So get into the habit of telling your loved ones what you desire, whether big or small. Talk about any inconveniences youβre facing and how youβd love for the people around you to support you through such situations.
No one can read your mind, make it known! π£οΈ
6. If You Donβt Like Something, Then Donβt Agree With It.
If you want to stop settling for less in life, then you need to break the cycle of saying yes to anything and everything.
When you continue to say yes to doing things or accepting things that you donβt personally agree with, you start to build a life that is no longer on your terms which will eventually damage the relationship you have with yourself. π
To break this habit, whenever somebody asks you to perform a certain task, take a slight pause and ask yourself if this is something you really want to do.
If the answer to this question is a yes, you can go ahead with the task, and if it is a no, you must say it out loud.
7. Invest Your Time And Money In Self-Care
The biggest lesson in this guide is how to stop settling in life; you need to realize your self-worth and value the same. To get out of negative situations, you must practice self-love and do more than just the bare minimum for your body, mind, and soul.
The relationship that one has with themselves is the most important and the most nurturing one. π
Therefore, investing your time and money into caring for yourself will indeed be a turning point in your journey in life.
To do this, you can invest in a healthy skincare routine, do regular meditations for your peace of mind, pay attention to your nutritional requirements, etc. π₯
8. Relive Your Hobbies And Passion
When you get into the habit of settling for less in life for a long time, your personal interests, hobbies, and passion can take a back seat in life.
It’s time to change that. πββοΈ
To overcome this, sit down and note the things youβre passionate about. Look at your current daily routine and see where you can fit at least one passion a week into your schedule.
9. Say Your Feelings Out Loud
If youβve been hurting for a long time, you might have developed invisible walls around you that stop you from communicating your feelings out loud.
To overcome this, you need to build a cycle of healthy communication with your loved ones and tell them what’s hurting you.
Sometimes we all end up settling for less in life when we do not attempt to correct the hurtful comments or behavior of the people around us.
Therefore, you must make your voice and feelings heard and then make the necessary decisions based on how the people around you accept those feelings. π€·ββοΈ
Wrapping Up – How to stop settling for less than you deserve
Our emotional barriers and low self-esteem can sometimes make us undervalue ourselves. Therefore, you need to understand the difference between what youβre getting and what you deserve to stop settling for less in life.
You will have to pay attention to your needs and demands and be willing and courageous to walk away if those demands canβt be fulfilled. π€·ββοΈ
I hope that the above guide on how to stop settling in life helps fuel your journey towards self-healing and promotes building a healthy relationship with your loved ones and yourself.
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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How to overcome your fear and get what you want
Success requires discipline and discipline is required for you stay committed to your goals.
Letβs face it, staying committed to anything let alone a goal can be difficult. Life has a way of throwing unwanted surprises at you when you least expect it. π
What do you think it would feel like to be deeply committed to your goals and 100% knew that there is absolutely nothing out there that can stop you in your tracks?
Yes, something can come at you and slow you down, but your persistence is so prominent that you will stop at nothing until that goal has been completed. π€
In other words, what would it feel like to be the person who would walk through walls to meet their purpose in life?
Life will continuously test your resolve to see how much you desire your goal.
Are you ready to stop half-assing your commitments and stay on the journey towards your goals?
Well, read on!
So how do you stay committed to your goals? Hereβs a list of a few ways to help keep you on track.
Be accountable to someone
An accountability partner is like a partnership where you mutually agree to coach each other and provide feedback on a regular basis.
You and your accountability partner agree to either daily, weekly or monthly feedback sessions to share wins and talk about the challenges faced.
When you commit to someone that you will complete a task it stretches your probability of completion to 65%. Moreover, when you create a specific accountability appointment with a person you are committed to the odds are in your favour at 95%!
Take away choice
When youβre only half committed to a goal thereβs a tendency to keep the door open for other options. We think, sure Iβm going to start this diet BUT if my mum cooks I canβt offend her and not eat her food or If Iβm too tired from work, surely it will be okay to order from UberEATS or Deliveroo since I donβt have the time to cook.
This is pure nonsense and not viable reasons. π
If youβre going to commit, commit wholeheartedly and remove all possibility in your mind of having an exit plan to get out of your responsibilities. Thereβs just one option: doing your commitment.
If you notice that youβre not upholding your commitment irrespective of not having an exit plan, ask yourself why youβre holding back. Are you going through the motions or have you given yourself so many commitments to uphold? π€
Whatβs stopping you from really showing up? Think about this resistance and ask yourself what it would take to deepen this commitment.
Celebrate small wins
Depending on the size of the goal you want to reach itβs important to focus on the smaller victories you reach before you hit your final goal.
It gives you the momentum and the self-confidence to keep going. Itβs self-empowering and a testament that you are on the right path.
There is a science behind this thought process too. When we accomplish something, it activates the reward center of our brains, allowing us to feel a sense of pride.
Dopamine is released and energizes us with feel-good emotions. This chemical helps you to experience the feeling of getting rewarded and can hook you on wanting to achieve more.
There are valuable lessons in taking smaller steps toward your goals, as they allow you to iron out the creases before pursuing your larger goal. The opportunity to get it right in the build-up phase is favourable than getting it wrong when it matters.
Remember your why
Remembering and knowing your why gets mentioned a lot in the blog posts I write because itβs a fundamental step to reaching success. Remember the deeper reason you committed to this goal.
πWhy do you do what you do?
πWhy do you love what you love?
Why is not the question, itβs the question.
Not only do you need to know your Why, you ned to remember it. You need to embrace it. You need to hold onto it when life throws everything at you.
NEVER let it go.
Do a minimum 1% of action every day
Big goals can seem daunting due to the amount of work involved to achieve them. It takes time to do anything worthwhile but thankfully we do not need to do everything one big chunk at a time.
Tackling big goals is all about the accumulation of daily work.
Writing a page a day doesnβt seem much but do it for 365 days and you have enough to fill a novel!
Figure out what your daily chunk of work is, and every day, no matter what happens, make sure it gets done.
βBut I donβt have enough timeβ β Of course you do. We all make time for things we want to make time for.
If you can’t take 10-20 minutes out of your day to do something important to you then you need to ask yourself why. π€·ββοΈ
Got a hectic day and not sure where you can fit the time in? You find time the same way you find spare change β in the nooks and crannies. You find the cracks between the big stuff β your commute to work, your lunch break, just before you go to bed etc.
You may have to miss out on your favourite TV show or wake up earlier than youβre used to. Nonetheless, you can find time to work if you look for it.
Develop a serious hunger
No amount of education, connections or experience will carry you through lifeβs inevitable setbacks.
Without a strong and powerful motive you will find it extremely hard to achieve any goal.
Your hunger is evident in your daily actions.
How do you stay hungry?
Burn the boats β No way out
According to legend, Alexander the Great landed his invasion force on the shores of Persia then ordered his ships burned.
He said, βWe go home in Persian ships or we dieβ. β
Giving yourself no exit plan will raise the stakes and increase your likelihood of success and make retreat impossible. This relates to my earlier point of taking away choice.
To eliminate any other course of action is not to be a decision made lightly. Whether it involves quitting your job, a career change or investing your savings. When youβre faced with a choice between victory or certain defeat, youβll be voracious for success. π
In Summary – How to become deeply committed to your goals
Donβt give in to your excuses and give up on committing to your goals. Weβre all able to create stories in our heads for giving up and then validate them by trying to look for evidence to support it.
Our minds have the ability to create any mental state we impose on them. π§
When you develop an insatiable hunger to commit to your goal, roadblocks are merely speed bumps and not stop signs.
Set yourself apart from the rest and gain the ability to get back on track and learn from your mistakes as soon as they happen.
The ability to do this over and over again until you get what you desire is what sets you apart from the low achievers.
Aim high, create a plan, stay committed to your goals and don’t stop until it’s achieved.
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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What are you scared of? π€
We are born with two innate fears: The fear of falling and the fear of loud noises. Both these fears are an instinct necessary for survival.
So! Let’s get started on how to overcome your fear and live your best life.
Storytime!
I personally have a fear of crossing bridges where I can see whatβs under me e.g. passing cars, rivers etc. I believe this relates to the innate fear of falling. As my main thought is βomg what if this bridge collapsesβ. π¬
This fear used to be so bad that I would purposefully take the longest route to avoid going on a bridge or even worse, not go to the location at all if the only option was to get on a bridge.
As you could imagine having a fear like that is totally annoying. It wasnβt until I went to Spain with my sister that my fear subsided.
One day we decided to go to the beach, and to get there we needed to cross this long, thin bridge above a very busy road.
The beach was just on the opposite end of the bridge, all I had to do was just cross it to get there. However I looked at it and thought β nope, canβt do it. Too long, too thin, no wayβ.
To be honest with you I donβt even know if I could call this thing a bridge, it was practically a piece of sheet metal.
Nevertheless, I knew my sister was eager to get to the beach and relax in the sun and I didnβt want to get in the way of her enjoying the holiday. She gave me a pep talk and off I went following behind her on the bridge.
I walked as briskly as the sound of cars driving by and horn honking was making my anxiety go through the roof, my heart was pounding out of my chest and my legs were starting to go numb.
I looked down and to my surprise noticed something which made me scream β OMG THERE ARE BULLET HOLES IN THIS BRIDGE I WANT TO GET OFFβ to which my sister replied “Heather shut up itβs not bullet holesβ we then argued back and forth over this rackety bridge regarding how these holes got there which completely distracted me to the fact that I was conquering my fear.
Once I stepped off, I felt extremely proud of myself and realised I can conquer any fear if I just βdo itβ. Sometimes it does take that helping hand of someone pushing you to help you realise your potential, especially if theyβre able to help distract you while youβre doing it! π
I was prepared to put my fear of crossing the bridge aside as my fear of disappointing my sister was much greater.
^ No, this is not what the bridge looked like but it might as well have!
Heatherβs top tip: Surround yourself with people who will push you to overcome the fears holding you back from where you want to go and what you want to do.
Learned fears β Scared of the unknown
The most common fears we experience that sabotage our hope for success is the fear of failure, poverty and loss of money.
These fears cause us to avoid risk and reject opportunity when it is presented. We often spend years chasing opportunity and get comfortable with the chase, so comfortable that it becomes part of our identity.
When the opportunity is within our grasp we freak out and get scared. π¬
This is because of the potential changes the opportunity may bring. If you donβt deal with uncertainty well youβll most likely create excuses as to why it’s not the right time for you to pursue the opportunity.
Here are a few techniques and tips to help you overcome your fears so you can become limitless
The law of reversibility
The law of reversibility says that βIf you feel a certain way, you will act in a manner consistent with that feelingβ.
So even if you donβt feel like it but act in a manner consistent with that feeling, the law of reversibility will create the feeling that is consistent with your actions.
This is one of the greatest breakthroughs in success psychology. You develop the courage you desire by disciplining yourself to repeatedly do what you fear until that fear eventually disappears.
Every opportunity can be undone
When an opportunity scares us it’s usually because we fear weβll make a mistake that can ultimately mess up your career, your personal work or just your life in general.
Nonetheless, the majority of opportunities that can come your way will not be life or death decisions. π€·ββοΈ
If an opportunity doesnβt work out, itβs not the end of the world. All it is a minor setback and a learning experience to which you can get back up, dust yourself off and carry on working towards your goal.
Opportunities pursued can just as easily be undone. Yet opportunities avoided are difficult to rediscover.
Is it a fear of failure or a fear of success?
Youβre probably thinking βHuh!? Why would I fear success?β but the reality is that success changes our lives more than failure and that thought can be really scary, especially when weβve spent years becoming comfortable with the current way we live.
To clarify whether itβs a fear of failure or a fear of success you need to know your definitions for both.
Related: QUIZ: What does success mean to you?
Fear of failure often involves self-talk such as: βIf I donβt try, I canβt failβ There is safety in standing still, not taking on new challenges or trying new things, all of these things can ultimately lead to βfailureβ.
Success for someone may be a salary of 500k and someone else may define success as a strong and happy marriage.
What is your definition of success?
What is your definition of failure?
Confront your fears immediately
When you identify fear and discipline yourself to move toward it and confront it, it grows smaller and more manageable.
The natural tendency of many people is to deny that they have a problem caused by fear of some kind. Theyβre afraid of confronting it which results in major stress, unhappiness and psychosomatic illness.
When you force to tackle your fear head on your self-esteem goes up, your self-respect increases and your sense of personal pride grows. π
RELATED: Getting out of your comfort zone mini-course
In Summaryβ¦
Fear immobilizes and prevents us from achieving what we desire and what we are capable of. Donβt let fear kill your hustle before you even get started.
Understand your fear and embrace it. Fear exists to keep us safe, it is not inherently bad or good but a tool we can use to make better decisions in life.
These tips are my top ways on how to overcome your fear and get what you want!
What methods have you used successfully to overcome your fears? Let me know in the comments π
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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Remember the time you were in school and were afraid of failing a science test? During those uncertain times, your mum would always tell you that if you just believe in yourself no force in the world could stop you from passing your exams!
Now that we have all grown a bit older, we still tend to doubt our abilities. π
Self-efficacy can play a crucial role in determining how confident you feel about yourself. So what is self-efficacy and why is it important? If you want to know the answers to these, this article is just for you! π
What is Self-Efficacy?
Self-efficacy is an interesting psychological concept. It is defined as an individual’s confidence in their abilities to be successful at any task they take up.
It is a measure of how much a person believes in themselves and how confident they are in overcoming any roadblocks they face in their personal and professional life.
People often tend to confuse self-efficacy with self-confidence, self-motivation, or even self-regulation. However, self-efficacy is an umbrella term that includes all these psychological concepts.
Maybe you already know your long-term life goals, the positive changes we’d like to bring in your life, and your professional goals. Great stuff! However, accomplishing these goals is a whole other kettle of fish.
Having a high level of self-efficacy can help you turn your thoughts into action and accomplish your life goals right away.
What is the Importance of Self-Efficacy in Your Life?
We all have our fears of obstacles and failing in life, whether it’s personal objectives or professionally. That said, setting goals and taking action to overcome these obstacles is the only way to move forward in life. π€·ββοΈ
Sometimes a goal can seem too intimidating to tackle, even when you feel like you’ve broken it down to the smallest step. This is where your self-efficacy comes into the picture.
It determines how you feel about yourself, how you behave when dealing with an obstacle, and what actions you take to overcome it. Here’s how a strong sense of self-efficacy can help you in life:
πIt helps you not get overwhelmed by your thoughts and feelings by keeping them under control in difficult situations.
πIt helps you to focus better on the academic front, achieve better grades and set higher career goals for yourself. If you have a strong sense of self-efficacy, you can feel more confident about achieving your life goals.
πWhen you face any obstacles or failures, self-efficacy empowers you to increase your efforts and get a grip over your situation.
πSelf-efficacy can be a key factor in developing self-confidence and leading a stress-free life.
How to Gauge Your Self-Efficacy?
In order to gauge your self-efficacy, you can take a quick survey and ask yourself the following questions:
π€Are you willing to work hard towards achieving your life goals?
π€Do you think you can overcome any roadblocks or obstacles that might stop you from achieving your goals?
π€Do you think you can bounce back stronger after failing at a task?
π€Do you think that you can keep trying to achieve your goals in the face of adversity?
π€Do you think you can keep your emotions under control when faced with a challenging situation?
π€What do you tend to focus on – your failures or your achievements?
π€Do you believe that you are competent enough to achieve everything you want in life?
If you gave a positive response to the above questions, you have a strong sense of self-efficacy. If not, don’t get disheartened. There are several ways to improve your self-efficacy.
What are the Negative Effects of Low Self-Efficacy?
According to several psychologists across the globe, self-efficacy is a key determinant of your overall health and well-being. People who believe in themselves have a stronger desire to achieve their life goals, a stronger sense of their interests, and the ability to bounce back quickly from setbacks in life.
They view every roadblock as a challenge.πͺ
On the other hand, a person who isn’t confident about themselves tends to steer clear of any challenges that come their way. They focus on their failures rather than their achievements.
Let’s take a look at how a low level of self-efficacy can affect your mental health and overall well-being.
- People who don’t feel confident about their abilities tend to have a lower success rate in achieving their life goals and realizing their ambitions. It causes one to feel anxious and lonely; it might even lead to depression in extreme cases. π¦
- Low self-efficacy can also lead to indecisiveness and a lower drive. π
- It can significantly hamper your ability to perform everyday tasks and concentrate on the task at hand. π
- People who spiral into depression due to low self-efficacy or are unable to deal with their failures often tend to resort to alcohol and drug abuse as an escape.Β π«
How Can You Develop Self-Efficacy?
If you are determined to bring a positive change in your life by improving your sense of self-efficacy, you can do so by implementing these three strategies. Take a look! π
1. Bid Goodbye to Your Comfort Zone
The best thing that you can do for your personal development is to get out of your comfort zone.
Getting out of your comfort zone will allow you to embrace the opportunities life has in store for you.
While it might seem like a daunting task at first, just think about everything you can achieve in your life if you just find the courage to take the first step.
To get out of your comfort zone, you can try to take a demo class of a skill that you always wanted to develop but were unable to. You could go out with your friends and try to meet somebody new. You can even try to go to social support groups and listen to motivational public speakers.
But I personally recommend this course right here ππ
2. Set Reasonable Goals
Don’t try to overwhelm yourself by setting unrealistic personal and professional goals. Inability to achieve such goals will only make you feel like a failure and lower your self-esteem. Instead, try to set small and realistic goals that you can manage to achieve easily by believing in yourself.
RELATED: S.M.A.R.T Goal setting worksheet
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3. Change the Way You See Your Failures
It’s a known fact that failures and obstacles are a part of everyone’s life. There’s no way you can avoid them. Instead of focusing on just your failures, try to look at the bigger picture. Think of your failures constructively and change the way you implement your actions.
4. Pay Heed to Positive Feedback
Paying heed to positive feedback about yourself from your friends and family can help you develop a strong sense of self-efficacy. Also, avoid paying attention to any negative feedback as well. (very much different than constructive feedback) π
Listening to something positive about yourself from the people you love and respect can be very encouraging for your soul and make you feel more motivated about achieving your goals.
5. Celebrate Your Achievements
The most effective way to inculcate a strong sense of self-efficacy in yourself is by celebrating your little achievements. Patting yourself on the shoulder for achieving both major and minor milestones in your life is a must.
Failures might undermine your self-efficacy but the feelings of actively trying to achieve your goals is a step towards enhancing your self-efficacy. π
The Bottom Line
Self-efficacy will generate adrenaline in you, which will not only push you to work hard and achieve your goals but it will also have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Everyone’s life is filled to the brim with challenges and obstacles. However, only those who are self-efficacious can see what lies beyond such obstacles.
You got this πͺ
Pin this post for a reminder π π
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