Fortunately, with our simple tips, you can craft an effective resume to land that coveted interview. Read on to learn the best resume writing tips to turn your experiences into an engaging story. 

Exploring Career Changers: The Best Resume Writing Tips You Must Learn

Leaping into a new career is an exciting adventure, but navigating the resume writing process can feel like climbing a mountain without a map. Whether you are shifting industries, roles, or countries, the process of translating your diverse experiences into a cohesive narrative, much like translating a document, can be daunting. Here is how to tackle it head-on.

1. Understand Your Unique Story

Before diving into formatting, it is vital to acknowledge the unique challenges you face compared to traditional career paths:

Identify Transferable Skills

Look beyond your job titles and focus on the work skills for the resume you honed in various roles. For example:

•   Adaptability
•   Communication
•   Leadership
•   Problem-solving
•   Time management

Actionable tip: Create a skills inventory by listing all your skills from past roles, personal projects, and volunteer work. Use online resources like the O*NET OnLine  to translate your skills to relevant keywords for your target industry.

Address Gaps and Changes

Explain career breaks or changes in your resume summary or cover letter. Frame them by highlighting relevant skills gained during these periods, like:

•   Freelancing
•   Entrepreneurial ventures
•   Volunteer work

You can also showcase the personal development or training you pursued during these periods.

2. Tailor Your Resume for Impact

The next step involves tailoring your resume to speak to your target industry and role, ensuring it reflects a recent resume update:

Research

Before starting your resume, dive deep into what is happening in your target industry. To do it, explore online resources (e.g., industry publications, professional association websites, company career pages) for valuable information like specific skills, keywords, and overall tone employers are looking for.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Accomplishments

Avoid listing your responsibilities. Sprinkle in keywords from job descriptions throughout your resume to showcase how your skills and achievements perfectly match their needs. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

Actionable tip: Create a table with specific job descriptions and identify the top 3-5 skills they require. Map your transferable skills to these requirements and prioritize them on your resume.

Format Choices

Consider using a functional or combination resume format. It will emphasize your transferable skills over the chronological order of your jobs, making it perfect for career changers who want to highlight their adaptability and diverse skill set.

Actionable tip: Use online resume builders or templates designed for career changers. Many offer various formats and pre-populated sections to help you get started. Some of the best options include:

•   Zety
•   LiveCareer
•   Resume Genius
•   MyPerfectResume
•   ResumeLab

3. Showcase Your Value Proposition

Craft a compelling resume that screams “Hire me!” by starting with a good summary for resume that encapsulates your career change aspirations and showcases your value proposition:

Compelling Summary or Objective Statement

Write a strong summary or objective statement that summarizes your value proposition and career aspirations. Briefly mention relevant skills, experience, and your passion for the new field.

Actionable tip: Use online resources like resume writing guides or professional resume reviewers to get feedback and polish your summary statement.

Quantifiable Achievements

Quantify your successes with metrics like increased sales, improved efficiency, or projects completed.

Actionable tip: Use strong action verbs and specific numbers to showcase the impact you made in previous roles. For example, instead of saying “Managed social media accounts,” say “Increased social media engagement by 25% through targeted content marketing campaigns.”

Keywords for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Use relevant keywords throughout your resume, ensuring your application gets past ATS. Try to be natural. Avoid stuffing your resume with keywords that do not fit your experience.

Actionable tip: Use a free ATS keyword scanner tool to analyze your resume and identify areas for improvement.

4. Format and Design

Proper resume presentation also matters. Here are some tips for a professional look:

•   Clear layout: Choose a clean and easy-to-read layout with consistent fonts and headings. Use white space to avoid a cluttered look.
•   Readability is key: Use concise bullet points and avoid lengthy paragraphs.
•   Highlight for impact: Use bolding or italics to draw attention to key skills and achievements. Ensure proper formatting throughout the document.

5. Customize

Avoid sending a generic resume at all costs. Tailor it to each job by highlighting the skills and experiences that matter most to them. Think of it like a conversation: you want to show them why you are the perfect fit based on what they are looking for.

6. Add Certifications and Training

Include relevant certifications and training to showcase your commitment to continuous learning and industry knowledge.

7. Proofread and Seek Feedback

Get someone else to proofread your resume for typos and grammatical errors.

Actionable tip: Utilize online proofreading tools or grammar checkers as a first pass, then have a trusted friend, colleague, or career counselor review your resume for more in-depth feedback.

Beyond the Resume: Building a Comprehensive Application Package

Your resume is one piece of the puzzle. Leverage other tools for a comprehensive application package to showcase your unique value and increase your chances of landing the interview:

1. Cover Letter

Write an engaging cover letter that reveals your career path in a personal and engaging way. It is your chance to connect with the hiring manager and demonstrate how your unique skills and experiences perfectly align with their needs.

Actionable tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your achievements in the cover letter, providing concrete examples of your problem-solving skills and impact.

2. LinkedIn Profile

Optimize your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills, experience, and career aspirations.

Actionable tip: Take part in relevant LinkedIn groups and discussions, contribute insightful comments, and share valuable content to demonstrate your expertise and connect with potential employers.

3. Portfolio or Website

Create a portfolio or website (if relevant to your field) to showcase your work samples, projects, and achievements.

Actionable tip: Use online portfolio platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or your website to display your work in an appealing and user-friendly format.

The resume writing tips highlighted above will help you produce a CV grabbing the attention of the hiring managers. Leverage your resume and embrace your career change journey by confidently applying for your dream job. The next exciting chapter is just a click away.

The post 7 Resumé Secrets to Fast Track Your Career Change appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

What is the solution? Why did God give us life?  Is there any meaning to such life where we constantly struggle for something that most of the time found to be meaningless?

In this regard, let us concentrate on the concept of reflective thinking as it provides solutions for several evils in society and pressures in today’s life. 

What is Reflective Thinking (RT)?

John Dewey coined the concept “reflective thought” in 1910 in his work captioned How We Think, for Teachers.  He defines reflective thinking as “Active, persistent, and careful consideration of any belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of the grounds that support it and the further conclusion to which it tends” (Dewey,1933). 

However, the concept has undergone a lot of modifications over some time.  RT sounds like a thinking chair—a practice by John C. Maxwell that allows thinking through silently in clearing the clutter and making decisions. 

Reflective thinking is reflecting on what you do for your progress.  It polishes your approach to reach your goals faster.  It paves the way for your success.  It is one of the ingredients for your smart work. 

Reflective thinking is beyond introspection.  It involves analyzing the current trends and patterns in the mind. It streamlines your mind by removing irrelevant and outdated ideas and insights thus allowing more space to accept and accommodate new ones.  

It is like deleting the waste files and replacing them with wanted files in any computer system. 

It provides breathing space to your mind.  As people find it hard to breathe properly due to pressures, they find it hard to think as well.  Therefore, reflective thinking is an effective tool for reflecting and thinking through new ideas.  

It enhances your creativity.  There is tremendous potential in this concept to utilize your vast human potential.

Advantages of reflection

If people spend a little time in reflective thinking they can find their personal and professional lives to be more meaningful and productive. At times people pursue routine activities without taking stock of the situation resulting in outdated practices and ending up nowhere. 

Here are some advantages of reflective thinking. 

• Reflection makes life meaningful.  We get out of outdated practices and habits.  
• Reflection helps you analyze your areas of strengths and weaknesses. It helps you realize where you stand in terms of your performance. It provides you with the right feedback.  Like solitude, reflection helps you take stock of the situation. 
• It provides you with growth opportunities. 
• Whenever you face challenges you can adopt this tool to find appropriate ideas. 
• It removes confusion and clutter from your mind thus providing you clarity in mind. 
• It helps in problem-solving.
• Above all, it manages your time effectively.

Hence, spend some time in solitude to reflect your mind. Your mind goes for self-introspection and reflects your thoughts effectively for behavioral changes. 

Daniel Patrick Forrester rightly refers to the importance of reflective thinking as follows: “It was said that Thomas Edison would often take his fishing rod, sit at the end of the pier, cast away, and then just sit there for hours. However, he would never put any bait on his hook. He didn’t want to catch any fish. What he wanted to do was to sit there uninterrupted, just reflecting on the issues of the day, on his work, or on whatever else came into his mind. He knew that if he looked as if he were fishing, no one would bother him, so he could reflect uninterrupted. All he wanted to do was catch ideas.”

Edison signed many pictures for friends and admirers filled with the visionaries’ advice. To one friend he said, “All things come to him who hustles while he waits. Your friend, Thomas Edison.” Therefore, it becomes clear that great people spend some time reflecting on their thoughts. 

Reflection and Information Overload

The invention of the internet led to information overload.  People think less and reflect less as a lot of information is available to them on a platter.  

They are often confused between what to choose and reject.  By the way, what do you mean by information overload?  Let us find out. 

The term ‘Information Overload‘ was coined by Alvin Toffler much before the internet revolution.  It is about giving excess information that clutters the human mind and confuses people. It prevents people from understanding the real content.  Sometimes it deviates from the main topic and area of interest.  

John C. Maxwell reveals in his book Success, “More new information has been produced in the last thirty years than in the previous five thousand.  A single weekday edition of the New York Times contains more information than most people in seventeenth-century England were likely to encounter in their lifetimes.” 

Reflection and Contribution

Reflection is beyond introspection.  It is an imaginative inquiry.  Everybody must reflect on how much difference is made to society.  It is talking to oneself and inner self.  How far an individual is useful to himself and others?  

What value is an individual adding? What difference does an individual make for others?  If everybody reflects then there will be all-round peace and prosperity universally.

Reflection paves the way for progress.  It paves the way for success. It breaks the traditional barriers and limitations.  It makes people stretch beyond their capabilities and competencies. It develops human potential.  It raises your dreams and aspirations.  It bridges the gap between aspirations and accomplishments. 

Reflection is a powerful tool for promoting human potential.

The human mind is a powerful device.  It has huge potential and man does not use it fully. Man must learn to use it properly.  Reflective thinking comes in handy in using the human mind and potential properly.  

In addition, clarity of mind is the key to success in the contemporary world. By reflective thinking, you remove clutter from your mind and that helps you simplify and overcome many obstacles in your life paving the way for your success.

Viktor Frankl wrote Man’s Search for Meaning long ago.  Now it is time again to search for meaning in one’s life by introspection, removing clutter, managing time, caring for your family and friends, and making a difference in this great human civilization. 

The post How to Use Reflective Thinking to Transform Your Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Steve Kamb has taken his online business to another level and experienced some mind blowing things all because of the way he sees life. Steve has applied the most addicting and enjoyable aspects of video game culture to leveling up in real life, culminating in his worldwide Epic Quest of Awesome.

Here’s how Steve Kamb, founder of Nerd Fitness, often compares life to a video game and his perspective for you:

1. Leveling Up: Think of your life like a character in an RPG. Each day, you’re grinding experience points. Whether you’re learning a new skill, hitting the gym, or tackling a project, you’re leveling up your stats.
2. Quests and Side Missions: Your goals are like main quests in a game, but don’t ignore the side missions. These are the hobbies, adventures, and passions that make life richer and more enjoyable.
3. Health Bar: Just like in games, your health bar matters. You need to take care of your body with proper nutrition, exercise, and rest to avoid burnout and stay in peak condition.
4. Inventory Management: Your time, energy, and resources are limited. Manage them wisely. Keep your inventory clutter-free by focusing on what truly matters and dropping what doesn’t serve you.
5. Boss Battles: Challenges and obstacles are like boss battles. They’re tough, but they’re designed to test your skills and push you to grow. Embrace them and learn from each defeat.
6. Guilds and Parties: You don’t have to go solo. Surround yourself with a supportive crew, your guild or party, who can help you, provide advice, and make the journey more fun.
7. Unlocking Achievements: Celebrate your victories, big and small. Achievements aren’t just for gamers; acknowledging your progress keeps you motivated and focused.
8. Character Customization: Personal development is like customizing your character. Invest in yourself, refine your strengths, and work on your weaknesses to become the best version of you.
9. Exploration: Don’t just stick to the main storyline. Explore new areas, try new things, and step out of your comfort zone. The world is vast and full of opportunities.
10. Game Over?: There’s no real game over until it’s all over. If you fail, respawn, learn from your mistakes, and try again. Every setback is just another chance to improve and come back stronger.

Life, much like a video game, is an adventure full of opportunities to grow, learn, and have fun. So, grab your controller and start playing to win!

Steve Kamb – Treating Life As A Video Game

Checkout Steve Kamb’s Awesome Blog: NerdFitness.com

The post 10 Ways Your Life is Like a Video Game appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

What impression does it convey to another person when you regrettably say that you forgot his name?

In this busy and competitive world people forget telephone numbers, passwords, and PINs.  It not only stops the work but also irritates not remembering.  Sometimes, you curse yourself for not remembering the things.

There are several tools and techniques by which you can improve your memory.  It is not a big challenge but it requires a little more concentration and effort. The human brain is highly complex.  You must know how to make use of it to improve your memory.  

In this context, it is desirable to know briefly about memory. 

What is Memory?

Memory is a mental activity where in stored information is recalled and retrieved as and when required.  It is divided into two types: short-term and long-term. In short-term memory, the information is stored for a few seconds or minutes. 

In contrast, in long-term memory, the information is stored for a longer duration.  When people listen to others, they feed in their memory automatically whether to register for short-term or long-term depending on the importance of information.

Techniques to improve your memory

• Open up your mind and instruct to encode new information.  
• Concentration is the key to good memory.  Explore ways to enhance your concentration.  
• Stay focused on one thing at a time.  Don’t go for multitasking.  Whenever you feel that the information is important you need to put in more effort and concentration so that you can remember well.  
• Avoid noises, interruptions, and external disturbances while listening.
• Do things slowly as it reinforces your memory.  
• Call people by names when introduced.  For instance, “It is my pleasure to meet you, Robert”.  Associate names of the people with well-known people you have already registered in your mind for better retention.  Create visual pictures in your mind.
• When you speak louder you can remember better as you listen to your voice. Maintain a diary to jot down the important information.  
• Prioritize the information while receiving it.  It helps in retaining the important information.  Instead of typing the information, you may write with your hand as the muscular memory will be activated resulting in storing the information.  
• There are several games on television and online to enhance your memory.  Playing the same will prove to be helpful.  
• Assimilate the information rather than reading the content for the sake of reading. It aids your memory.   
• If you find it difficult to memorize large content, you can break it into small parts.  Memorize each small part and mentally compile the same for final memorization.  
• Relate the information with your real live events through pictorial visualization as it helps in recollection.  
• Research reveals that humans can remember between 5 to 9 items at a time.  If you can break the information between 5 to 9 items then it becomes easy for you to remember and recollect.  
• People have a natural tendency to remember rhymes and rhythms.  Therefore, convert your content accordingly for effective memory.  
• Go to bed without overly worried about anything. If you go to bed thinking about the problems then you get better solutions by the next day morning.  
• Relax your mind when blocked with memory recall.  Engage your mind on other issues.  To your surprise, you will recall whatever you wanted as your brain searches for the information.  
• Avoid anxiety and stress as it blocks your memory.  Adopt relaxation techniques.
• Make use of your inner dialogue.  Every individual is involved in self-talk which is also known as inner dialogue.  Repeated conversation within your mind reinforces and aids your memory.  
• When you talk about new concepts with others, it not only improves your communication skills but also aids in memorizing complicated information.  
• The way you exercise your body you should exercise your memory muscles.
• Finally, eat nutritious food as it keeps your body and mind healthy. It aids in effective memory.

Memory Techniques for Students

1. Students should review the information they receive in the classroom within a day so that they can retain the same effectively. Jotting down the points taught during the class by the teacher helps them to review and revise immediately. 
2. Students should focus on the keywords while reading the content as it helps them in analyzing, understanding, and memorizing the content.  Read the content repeatedly if possible. 
3. Develop your mnemonic device wherein the first letters of each word have to be framed as a word for better recalling. It helps students, especially during examinations. 
4. Use highlighters and colored pens while reading the text and apply the same depending on the importance and priority of the content.  It helps in saving time and also in better memory.
5. Find out what kind of senses would be comfortable and ideal for you and exploit the same for better memory. 
6. “A picture is worth a thousand words” goes the saying.  Use pictures, graphs, and charts to help your memory. 
7. Write and rewrite the content repeatedly as it enriches your content apart from aiding your memory.

We all are Blessed with Good Memories

Memory is not the privilege of a gifted few.  If you know that it is a skill you can cultivate easily.  But you need to put in effort regularly to achieve amazing results.  Memory tips help everyone including children, students, and working people to achieve success.  

We all are blessed with good memories. Unfortunately, we don’t realize and exploit.  Effective utilization of memory helps in better interpersonal relations, builds bridges, and ensures all-around success.  

The post The Best Techniques to Boosting Your Memory in a Busy World appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

The world has become ruthless with cutthroat competition. It is a rat race where no one cares about others.  That is the current scenario globally.

God blessed us with life.  If everyone thinks of contributing something to others by whatever means, most of the problems will be resolved and people feel better, bigger and greater.  

However, very few people have the time to think along those lines as they don’t find to think through.

Where will the world go?  Who will save the world and the people?  It is time to think through and do something for others to make a difference.

Make a habit of spending some time daily to listen to people and empathize with them.  It comforts them. If possible, observe people around you and say a few good things and motivate them. Who knows the man whom you motivate might be at the brink of disaster.  

Making others feel important can change the world

Here is a short story of making others feel more important and saving lives. There was a young woman who was walking in the street.  A man who was passing by saw the woman, stopped her shook her hand, and said, “Hi young woman! Where are you going?  You look so beautiful! Have a great day!”  

The woman was shocked at the stranger who shook her hand with warmth and greeted her with a great smile saying that she was looking great.  She was coming back from the medical store with a small bottle in her hand wrapped with a cover.  She was in a great depression as her boyfriend cheated on her and married something another woman.  

She felt let down and depressed.  She lost all her confidence and felt inferior that she was not looking and probably that led her boyfriend to dump her and search for some other woman.  

During the great depression, she went to a medical store to buy poison to end her life.  When she was going back after buying a small bottle of poison, the stranger shook her hand, praised her beauty, and wished her a great day. 

Then she went to her home and looked in the mirror whether she was looking beautiful.  She looked at the mirror several times and began smiling by thinking, “Yes, I am beautiful! What the stranger said was right.  My deserted boyfriend is not lucky enough to enjoy my beauty and she gradually developed confidence.” 

Finally, she threw away the bottle containing poison and she went on to build a great career with a good man and became an international celebrity.   

This story reveals the importance of making others feel important thus saving them from the brink of committing suicide.  We don’t know how much difference we make by praising and elevating others.  

It is essential to appreciate and elevate others. Learn to look at the similarities rather than differences.  Learn to look at the strengths rather than weaknesses because what goes around will come back to you.

“One of the best ways to influence people is to make them feel important. Most people enjoy those rare moments when others make them feel important. It is one of the deepest human desires.” — Roy T. Bennett

Here are a few nuggets to make others feel more important. 

• Listen to the other person with the right body language.  Step into the shoes and empathize.  Nod in agreement appropriately.  If the other person is in distress don’t disturb and allow him/her to ventilate problems.  Then present your solutions. 
• When a person achieves something praise liberally. But be specific and objective to avoid sounding like a flattery. 
• Identify the key strengths of people and praise them whenever and wherever possible. 
• Adopt the mirroring technique where you need to convert your body language as per the other person as it helps in connecting with the other person making him/her feel comfortable and creating a common ground. 
• Remember the fact that people have different needs, egos, emotions, and feelings.  You cannot adopt a fixed approach or style to touch them. You need to identify each person’s situation and issue to touch and strike an emotional chord with them. 
• Above all, always handhold others. 

Remember, it takes several years to build relations but takes a few seconds to break it.  Hence, present a positive attitude and praise and make others feel more important to touch and connect with them emotionally and successfully. 

People might pose a question such as “At a time when people don’t find time for themselves how can they find time for their family and friends and society?”  Yes! It is true.  

As we have responsibility towards our children we have equal responsibility towards of future generations for passing on society’s values and virtues.  Hence, it is time for us to find time to think, act, and make a difference for others to take this human civilization to greater heights of glory not in terms of material but in ideals and ideas.

The post The Power of Elevating Others: Steps to Change Your Life for the Better appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

People often think that they will be happy at a later stage if they work hard today.  However, there is no guarantee of happiness at a later stage.  

In this context, I would like to discuss Ben-Shahar’s Happiness Model which is thought-provoking for busy people to take a look at and find meaning in their lives.  

Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar is the author of several books and a specialist in “Positive Psychology.” He is the author of various books such as The Pursuit of Perfect: How to Stop Chasing Perfection and Start Living a Richer, Happier Life and Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment.  

He has designed a Happiness Model which is also known as “The Hamburger Model”.  It contains four quadrants representing Nihilism, Hedonism, Rat Race, and Happiness.  

Here is the information taken from his book ‘Happier’ to bring awareness about this model for the benefit of readers. 

Ben-Shahar’s Happiness Model

Nihilism: Nihilism falls in the bottom left-hand quadrant of the Happiness Model. Nihilists are people who have given up hope of finding meaning in life. They don’t enjoy any present happiness, nor do they have any sense of purpose or hope for the future. As a result, they’re “resigned to their fate.”  

Hedonism: Hedonism falls in the lower right-hand quadrant of the model.  Hedonists focus on present happiness only, and give little thought to future consequences. They may think that “working hard” is painful and tedious, and may avoid this.  As a result, hedonists feel unchallenged and are often unfulfilled.

Rat Race: The Rat Race falls in the upper left-hand quadrant of the model. In the Rat Race, we detrimentally put off present happiness in the hope of some future benefit.  This archetype is likely the most familiar to many of us. Here, people constantly pursue goals that they think will make them happy. When those goals are achieved, however, a new goal almost immediately takes its place. While Rat Racers may experience brief flashes of satisfaction when they achieve goals, any thought of present happiness is then quickly pushed to the side.

Happiness: The Happiness archetype falls in the upper right quadrant of the model. This archetype reflects a good balance between present happiness and future benefits.

Precisely, the Happiness Model defines four happiness archetypes as follows: 

1. Nihilism – Nihilists have lost the joy in life. They derive no present pleasure in their work or life and expect no future benefits or rewards. They’ve “given up.”
2. Hedonism – Hedonists live for the moment. They pursue pleasure and an easy life and give little or no thought to future consequences and plans. 
3. Rat Racing – The Rat Race archetype often sacrifices current pleasures and benefits in anticipation of some future reward. 
4. Happiness – True happiness is achieved when there is a perfect balance between present pleasure and future benefits. 

“Happiness grows less from the passive experience of desirable circumstances than from involvement in valued activities and progress toward one’s goals.” — Tal Ben-Shahar

Current Global Scenario

It is rightly said that a young person looks at the future; the middle-aged person looks at the present while the old-aged person looks at the past.  However, in the cut-throat competitive world young, middle-aged, and old are running behind something for which they don’t have any clarity.  

The present position is such that parents don’t have time to spend with their children.  As a result, children find emotional gaps and search elsewhere for the same. Sometimes the crimes shoot up among the children and teenagers as parents don’t find time to guide and groom them. 

Old people are uncared by children as the latter are busy with their survival and success.

We are living in a competitive world where people often intend to outsmart others without realizing any meaning in life. God gave us life.  

We must learn to make use of the most by striking a balance between pressure and pleasure, between rapidity and slowness. Otherwise, there is no meaning to life.

Happiness is a state of mind.  It comes in any way such as through wealth, knowledge, power, prestige, or love. However, it depends on the priority of the person.   

People often think that happiness is an end but the fact is that happiness is a means. People struggle and sacrifice throughout their life journey to think about the destination of happiness. 

True happiness lies in the journey, not in the destination. 

It is essential to strike the balance between today and tomorrow.  Several books have come up learning to live in the present rather than getting bogged down about the past and over anxious about the future.  

Hence, let us learn to live in the present rather than being worried about the past that cannot be changed and concerned about the future that can not be predicted. 

Learn to strike a balance between the past, present, and future and also between the pressure and pleasure to find meaning in your life. 

The post The Happiness Model That’ll Change Any Entrepreneurs Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

I used to hate interviews; they really scared me. To help me get through them with less fear, I started picturing the way one of my colleagues handled interviews and pressure in general. I thought about how he responded to questions he didn’t know the answer to, how he stayed calm even when he felt like the interview wasn’t going well, and how he stayed positive and poised even when he felt he was being treated poorly. I’d mentally go through the whole interview at home, imagining myself displaying that same cool demeanor.

What did I learn from this and how do you go about building self-confidence and faking it until you become more brave? Everyone experiences a lack of self-confidence now and then, but for the sake of your career, it’s important to consciously work on this trait.

The Importance of Self-Confidence

Self-confidence leads to better performance, as well as good feelings about yourself and what you can achieve.

When you lack self-confidence, you can fall into traps that can hold you back. For example, when you’re a junior and learning at a company, you might get into the habit of taking the blame when things go wrong. As a result, you may start thinking you’re stupid or not capable of handling the position. But it’s not on you. You’re not supposed to understand everything from the beginning.

A lack of self-confidence can also lead you to be too modest and hide your success or to let someone else take credit. You might think that your managers will see what you’re doing and promote you without you speaking up, but it usually doesn’t work that way. You might feel too shy to do your own PR and hope a coworker will notice and spread the word. You can’t rely on that either. If you aren’t naturally confident, you need to fake it by sharing your successes, and doing your own PR.

At the same time, self-confidence doesn’t mean you never make mistakes. Everyone does, no matter how confident they are or how long they’ve been in their career. Don’t get stuck on being perfect. Remember: better done than perfect.

Building Self-Confidence

Lack of confidence is the number one issue I see in the women I mentor. The good news is that self-confidence can be learned. Overcoming self-doubts happens when you honestly and truthfully assess your abilities and work on areas that need improvement.

“If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence, you have won even before you have started.” –Cicero

Here are ten tips to get you started:

1. Work on building self-confidence by reading a self-help book or by getting help from another person. Find a therapist to analyze your negative patterns. Get a coach to help you practice being brave. Find what triggers your lack of confidence and the beliefs that limit you. For example, you might think, “I am not smart enough,” or “I didn’t finish my project on time, so I am not a competent worker.” Once you recognize these thought patterns, you can work through them in therapy, coaching, or speaking with other women. Stop yourself when you notice these negative thoughts, and ask yourself what you would tell a friend who spoke to herself in this harsh way. Also, look at the things you say to yourself and evaluate whether or not they’re true. Maybe you tell yourself you’re too slow at producing work, but when you reflect, you realize you deliver a good job consistently. If it helps, write down the truth about your skills so you remember next time self-doubt creeps in.
2. Try things you don’t think you can do. Start a blog. Give a lecture. Present at a conference. Try something that is harder than your current skill level. You might think something like speaking at a conference takes a lot of self-confidence, but it’s really a matter of preparation and practice. Building diverse professional skills is one of the best ways to build confidence in your abilities.
3. Engage in meetings even when you don’t feel 100 percent sure about the topic. Ask questions. Share your perspective. The more you do it, the more confident you’ll become.
4. Even if you fail when you take a risk, learn from that experience. Separate yourself from failure. You did something, and it failed. You are not a failure. Learn from the situation and then move on.
5. Believe you’re worthy of a promotion. Aim high. Ask yourself what you need to do to make it to that next position. Look at the steps and start taking them.
6. Look for a supportive community. Find a buddy within your team, someone you can learn from in those areas where your current knowledge and skills are limited.
7. Ask people who appreciate you to encourage you. Find people who can help you calm down when you’re feeling nervous, like before a big presentation. When you share how you’re feeling, these friends can show you how valuable you truly are.
8. Change your goals. If you’re worried about finding a new job, change the goal from “finding a new job” to “getting as many interviews as possible.” If you succeed in getting interviews, then you’ve already won. Eventually you will get a job.
9. If you have a huge task, break it down to small tasks. Small steps are usually easier to handle, practically and emotionally, and little wins can boost your confidence.
10. When you’re scared, imagine someone who has confidence— just as I did when I was scared to interview. Envision this person doing what you need to do. How does she handle herself? How does she speak? Notice the small details and then try to imitate them in your own situation.

Fake It and You’ll Make It

Don’t wait until you have confidence to do big, meaningful things. Instead, set big goals and work toward them. It’s time to revise the old refrain “fake it till you make it, and commit to the idea that when it comes to building self-confidence and getting the career you dream of, the catchphrase is “fake it and you’ll make it!”

The post Fake It and You’ll Make It: 10 Tips to Build Self-Confidence appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

History of Bushido

Bushido finds its roots in the samurai class of feudal Japan, a group of warriors who served the nobility. The term itself, which translates to “the way of the warrior,” embodies a complex set of ethical codes that dictated the conduct and mindset of these ancient Japanese warriors. The fundamental tenets of Bushido included righteousness, courage, compassion, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty.

Impact on Society

The impact of Bushido on Japanese society was profound, shaping the cultural fabric and influencing the behavior of individuals at all levels. Samurai were not just skilled warriors; they were expected to be well-rounded individuals with a deep sense of moral responsibility. This ethos extended beyond the battlefield, seeping into the everyday lives of the samurai class and, consequently, influencing the wider population.

Why Embrace Bushido in Building Character

In a rapidly changing world where values can sometimes be elusive, adopting the principles of Bushido offers a solid foundation for building character. Here are compelling reasons why one should consider incorporating Bushido into their personal development journey:

1. Honor and Integrity: At the core of Bushido lies the concept of honor, a virtue that encourages individuals to act with integrity and uphold their moral principles. Embracing this aspect of Bushido cultivates a strong sense of self-respect and a reputation for principled living.
2. Courage in Adversity: The samurai were renowned for their courage in the face of adversity. In today’s challenging world, the ability to face difficulties with bravery and resilience is invaluable. Bushido teaches that adversity is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
3. Compassion and Respect: Bushido emphasizes compassion and respect for others, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding. In a world often characterized by division, these principles serve as a reminder of the importance of treating others with kindness and dignity.
4. Honesty and Loyalty: Samurai were bound by a code of honesty and loyalty. By embracing these values, individuals can build trust in their relationships and create a sense of loyalty in their personal and professional lives.
5. Discipline and Mastery: The rigorous training and discipline of the samurai set them apart as elite warriors. Incorporating a disciplined approach to personal growth and the pursuit of mastery in various aspects of life are key principles of Bushido that can lead to long-lasting success.

“It is the very mind itself that leads the mind astray – of the mind, do not be mindless.” – Takuan Soho

Samurai Tales of Honor

1. The Forty-Seven Ronin: An Epic of Loyalty

Perhaps the most iconic example of Bushido in action is the story of the Forty-Seven Ronin. In 1701, Lord Asano Naganori was provoked into drawing his sword within Edo Castle, resulting in his forced suicide. His loyal samurai, now masterless or ronin, adhered to the principles of loyalty and honor. After careful planning, they avenged their master’s death by exacting justice upon the antagonist responsible. This act of loyalty, meticulously executed despite tremendous personal risk, epitomizes the unwavering commitment and sense of duty ingrained in the samurai spirit.

2. Miyamoto Musashi: The Sword Saint and Strategist

Miyamoto Musashi, one of Japan’s most legendary swordsmen, exemplifies the multifaceted nature of Bushido. Musashi not only mastered the art of the sword but also embraced the broader principles of Bushido in his daily life. In his renowned work, “The Book of Five Rings,” Musashi emphasizes the importance of discipline, adaptability, and strategic thinking. His life is a testament to the idea that true mastery extends beyond the battlefield, encompassing the virtues of integrity and continuous self-improvement.

3. Yamamoto Tsunetomo “Hagakure”: The Hidden Leaves

Yamamoto Tsunetomo, a samurai from the early 18th century, compiled his thoughts on Bushido in a work known as “Hagakure” or “The Book of the Samurai.” In this collection of reflections, Tsunetomo emphasizes the importance of embracing death with grace, living with purpose, and maintaining unwavering loyalty. His writings offer insights into the mindset of a samurai who is deeply committed to the principles of Bushido, even in the face of mortality.

4. Takeda Shingen: The Virtuous Warlord

Takeda Shingen, a daimyo and military tactician of the 16th century, embodied the fusion of martial prowess and ethical conduct. Recognized for his strategic brilliance on the battlefield, Shingen also adhered to the principles of compassion and justice. Legend has it that he once returned a territory to a rival warlord because it rightfully belonged to the rival’s family. This act of integrity and adherence to justice showcases how Bushido transcended the boundaries of war and permeated the decisions of even the most formidable leaders.

The tales of the samurai, steeped in the principles of Bushido, provide us with concrete examples of how this ancient code was not just a set of lofty ideals but a practical guide for living a life of honor and virtue. From avenging a fallen lord to mastering the art of war with an unwavering commitment to ethics, the samurai exemplified the timeless relevance of Bushido. As modern gentlemen seek to build their character and navigate the complexities of contemporary life, the stories of these warriors serve as a wellspring of inspiration, urging us to embody the spirit of Bushido in our own journeys of personal growth and self-discovery.

The post Revolutionize Your Growth: Lessons from Japanese Philosophy That Stand the Test of Time appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

The only restrictions to expanding into more and more of our potential are self-imposed. They’re imaginary boundaries constructed by our minds. 

Often, these boundaries are beautifully crafted machinations of our imagination that feel utterly true and impenetrable. 

The Role of Self-Image in Unlocking Potential

Expanding into our potential is a function of:

• Our self-image
• Our level of self-trust
• Our level of self-worth
• Our level of self-efficacy

Our willingness to question, explore, and travel beyond our imaginary boundaries. 

Our potential isn’t something “out there” we chase and catch; it resides within and is something we can expand into. 

Nor does it require a herculean effort.

Facing Challenges: A Gateway to Transformation

When we face a challenge, regardless of its size and regardless of the outcome, we’ve evolved into someone new.

Because when we face a challenge, we’re walking directly into one of our personal edges (the imaginary boundaries).

An edge is an opportunity to walk away, to capitulate to fear and self-doubt, and, conversely, to move towards our fears and self-doubt. 

When we capitulate, we diminish. 

When we move forward, we expand. 

When we move towards, face, and emerge on the other side of a challenge, we’ve transformed into the individual who’s done the thing that seconds ago challenged us not to do the thing. 

This is a moment that can go to waste, or it can be leveraged to create the extraordinary. 

If we want to create the lives we dream of, we can’t allow ourselves to diminish these moments, as can be our tendency, due to more of our imaginary boundaries.  

We’re conditioned to stand in the shadows of our successes because to celebrate them is “cocky” or arrogant.

Our celebration needn’t be external, but it most certainly must be internal. 

We must celebrate ourselves and stand in our power, embracing that acknowledging ourselves is neither cocky nor arrogant. 

Plus, when we do this, we release the pleasure hormone dopamine, therefore training our minds to want to face more challenges, creating a powerful cycle. 

So when we face and emerge through challenges, we create a new iteration of ourselves and unlock a new existence.

Within that new existence are opportunities and possibilities that weren’t available to us before. 

The opportunities and possibilities were always there; they just weren’t available to us mentally and emotionally. 

It becomes a choice, and perhaps one of the most important choices of our lives, to seize those new opportunities and possibilities.

This will require us to create a new iteration of ourselves again, and the cycle continues.

“With realization of one’s own potential and self-confidence in one’s ability, one can build a better world”. – Dalai Lama

Hence, our human potential is infinite.

One may think the next obvious question is, “How?” 

How do we expand into our infinite potential? What are the steps we must take?

How is critically important, but “Why?” creates the fuel to consistently face challenges and expand our lives. 

The “Why?” varies from person to person, but I believe the root of the “Why?” is universal.

As part of our shared human experience, we desire meaning. 

We want our lives to have meaning and purpose. It’s inherent to us and a part of us the way our hair is, whatever color it is. 

We don’t create meaningful lives by remaining in our status quo; we create meaningful lives by going within and understanding who we truly are and who we want to be. 

Crafting Your Personal Operating System

One of the ways we do this is by creating our own personal operating system.

There are three components to our own personal operating system:

Our core values, principles, and mantra for life. 

Core Values: These are our Northstar.

Principles: These are the basic tenets we abide by for how we want to show up in the world.

Mantra: This single sentence captures the essence of how you want to live and how you show up. 

What do we stand for, and what governs our decisions and choices. Because our lives are the aggregate of our decisions and choices (see above).

Life becomes crystal clear when we establish and embody our personal operating system.

Our priorities change, and we make more expansive choices.

Our “Why?” and our “How?” become interwoven

Through this interweaving, we find the strength to continually expand into our potential. 

When we expand our potential, we cultivate the meaning and purpose we’ve always longed for. 

The post How to Expand Human Potential to Find More Meaning in Your Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

I’ve been there myself – stuck in a tug-of-war between my actions and what I value most.

When life’s demands pull us in many different directions, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters. Yet, there is a fundamental connection between authenticity and behaving in ways that honor our deeply held ideals when pursuing a meaningful and rewarding life.

What it Means to Live Authentically

Living authentically requires a concerted effort to understand, appreciate, and express your core principles. As we navigate the complexities of our personal and professional lives, the question of how we can live in harmony with our sincere intentions and guarantee that our decisions and actions genuinely reflect our convictions arises.

Your values guide your decisions, behaviors, and overall approach to life. These foundational beliefs and ideals shape your perceptions, influence your interactions with the environment, and range widely from honesty and compassion to innovation and freedom.

They sum up who you are and what you stand for, operating as a distinctive fingerprint, differentiating one person from another among diverse perspectives, and serving as the foundation for establishing your identity.

Your behaviors’ alignment (or misalignment) with your ideals contributes significantly to your sense of self. When you live your principles deliberately, you create a strong and consistent identity representing your character. 

On the contrary, misalignment can cause internal turmoil, emptiness, or the sense that something essential is missing.

Exploring how personal values shape identity involves recognizing ethics and beliefs that resonate strongly within you, understanding their origins, and accepting them as vital parts of your story. 

Aligning your behaviors with these values allows you to cultivate a more authentic version of yourself and positively contribute to the communities and relationships you interact with.

Identifying your values requires introspection and self-reflection to discover the beliefs that resonate most strongly with you.

“When we choose to live authentically we chip away at others prisons of pretend and create an opportunity for them to walk out of darkness into freedom.” — Anthony Venn-Brown

3 Ways to Identify Your Core Values

Reflect on Meaningful Experiences

Consider times when you felt utterly fulfilled, satisfied, or proud. These occurrences frequently correspond to your core values. 

Think about the circumstances, behaviors, and feelings associated with such experiences. Whether it’s a personal accomplishment, a meaningful relationship, or a problematic situation in which you displayed resilience, these experiences provide significant insights into what matters most to you.

Examine Your Reactions to Others

Take note of the characteristics or behaviors of others that elicit strong reactions, whether favorable or adverse. These emotional reactions can reveal information about the ideals you hold dear. 

For example, if you admire someone for their honesty, you may consider integrity a notable value. If, on the other hand, you experience discomfort when confronted with dishonesty, this may indicate the importance of truthfulness in your value system.

Prioritize and Define

Once you’ve identified potential values, prioritize them based on their significance. Consider how each value contributes to your sense of fulfillment and purpose. 

Spend some time articulating and defining what each value means to you. If “family” is a value, determine which aspects of family life are most important: connection, support, or shared experiences.

Actively participating in these reflection exercises enables you to peel back the layers of your values and better understand the guiding principles in your life. 

Be mindful that personal beliefs might change; reflecting regularly ensures that you remain true to yourself.

Benefits of Aligning Values & Behaviors

When you make intentional decisions that align with your beliefs, you develop deep contentment from living according to your convictions. This consistency fosters a sense of purpose that extends beyond everyday duties, guiding your personal and professional decisions. 

Aligning behaviors with personal beliefs is also closely linked to greater mental and emotional well-being. Creating cohesion between the two can reduce stress and promote emotional resilience, as opposed to the inner turmoil that can result when your actions contradict your convictions. 

Those who stay true to their principles often enjoy more inner peace and mental stability, laying the groundwork for successfully handling life’s obstacles.

Challenges of Embracing Authentically

Despite the numerous advantages, the path to living authentically has challenges. Common roadblocks include cultural constraints, self-doubt, and the fear of being judged.

External demands from family, peers, or societal pressures might occasionally conflict with your beliefs, causing internal conflict.

Setting clear boundaries and communicating openly with others can help manage expectations and encourage a more supportive environment. 

It’s also important to remember that societal norms are changeable, and life frequently involves challenging and adapting them over time.

Welcoming vulnerability and fearlessly expressing your genuine nature, especially in the face of societal expectations, can lead to personal liberation and pave the way for a more honest and satisfying existence.

10 Signs You’re Out of Alignment with Your Values

When your actions deviate from what truly matters to you, it can lead to unease and discontent. If you find yourself questioning whether you’re living in alignment with your core values, here are some signs to look for:

Persistent Discontent: A lingering feeling of dissatisfaction or unhappiness despite external success may indicate a misalignment with your values. If achievements don’t bring fulfillment, it’s time to explore if they resonate with what you truly value.

Conflict in Decision-Making: Difficulty in making decisions can be a red flag. If you often feel torn between choices and struggle to prioritize, it might indicate a lack of clarity about your core values guiding those decisions.

Lack of Passion: If you’ve lost the enthusiasm and passion you once had for your pursuits, it’s worth reflecting on whether your current path aligns with what ignites your inner fire.

Feeling Drained: Constant fatigue and feeling emotionally or physically drained may suggest that your daily activities are not in harmony with your values, leading to energy depletion.

Strained Relationships: If you notice increasing tension or dissatisfaction in your relationships, it could be a sign that your actions and behaviors are not aligning with the values you hold dear, impacting your connections with others.

Identity Crisis: Feeling a disconnect between who you are and how you present yourself to the world may signal a misalignment with your core values. Authenticity thrives when actions align with beliefs.

Time Feels Wasted: Regularly feeling like you’re wasting your time or talents on activities that don’t contribute to your sense of purpose may indicate a misalignment with your values.

Ignoring Inner Voice: If you consistently disregard your intuition or that inner voice nudging you towards a particular path, it could be a sign that your actions are out of sync with your true self.

Health Issues: Chronic stress or health problems might be physical manifestations of the internal conflict between your actions and your values. Your body often reacts when there’s a misalignment between the mind and behaviors.

Comparison Trap: Constantly comparing yourself to others or feeling pressured to meet external expectations may signify living by standards that don’t align with your core values.

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward transformation. It’s an opportunity to reflect on your choices, reassess your priorities, and make intentional changes that bring you closer to a life that resonates with your authentic self.

In a society that often imposes expectations and conventions, demonstrating authenticity becomes almost rebellious. But your values will lead you toward a purposeful and fulfilled life. 

By embracing your ideals, you catalyze positive change, inspiring those around you to do the same. It becomes more than a personal accomplishment; it is your unique gift to others, setting an example for self-acceptance and genuine connection.

The post How to Live Authentically for a More Meaningful and Rewarding Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

While an increase in holiday shopping can bolster the economy, it can also singe deep holes in the pockets of everyday consumers. 

Planning ahead will be essential for anyone looking to stay on top of their finances this holiday season.

If you’re worried about how this year’s holiday spending might impact your finances, we’re here to help. In this article, we share six simple practices to manage your holiday finances with focus and intention.

Look ahead before making a plan 

Looking ahead is crucial to managing your finances better this holiday season.

The holiday season puts additional financial demands on consumers, causing many to rack up credit card debt. This often leads people to turn to credit repair solutions come January to fix the damage. 

Before making a holiday financial plan, consider months like January, February, and March. Could your holiday ambitions deplete your funds in the months ahead? Will you go into debt unnecessarily to cover things like gifts or special outings?

Next, grab a pen and paper or a budgeting calendar and mark your projected starting and final balances for the winter months. Include your after-tax income, any monthly credits, and any fixed expenses you’ll have. If you’re engaged in remote work, remember to consider any potential remote work taxes that may apply to your income during this period.

Next, consider what your holiday spending might look like. Include trips, activities, extra meals, and gifts you’d like to cover in your projected spending analysis. Finally, look for details that suggest you’ll have low cash flow or excess debt based on your projected holiday spending.

Plan a thoughtful holiday budget

The previous exercise should’ve given you a clear picture of your financial health over the winter months with your current holiday plans in mind. 

If it shows that you’ll have plenty of funds to carry you through the winter months, then congratulations. You shouldn’t have any dry months or excess debt this holiday season. 

If the exercise showed you’ll have depleted funds and/or holiday debt, it’s time to rethink your current plans. 

Here are a few quick tips to help you plan a thoughtful holiday budget either way:

• Build in an extra holiday cushion by rounding up your projected holiday expenses
• Open a curveball account to hold you over in case of a holiday emergency 
• Open a holiday account with a specific budget and limit your holiday spending to that balance
• Don’t want to open two new accounts? Try the cash envelope system
• Set gifting spending limits for each gift or opt for Secret Santa gifting instead
• Set travel and activity spending limits that complement your holiday budget 
• Be honest about activities or gifts you can’t afford and remove them from your holiday plans

Consider upping your investment contributions 

While the holidays may seem like the worst time to up your investment contributions, doing so might help you breathe a little easier. 

Upping your investment contributions isn’t just a great way to expand your portfolio. It can also help you feel more prepared for the future. 

Crypto and NFT are also great options for investment, and you can easily track your profits with a crypto profit calculator. Also, remember to always remain compliant with your local laws and regulations regarding income and taxes. 

If you’re unsure how to contribute to your investments wisely, or if you haven’t started investing yet, consider meeting with a financial advisor for support. 

Before choosing an advisor, comb through plenty of reviews to make sure you’re hiring someone with ethics, integrity, and plenty of know-how.

At the meeting, be sure to bring an itemized list of your financial assets, financial goals, and risk tolerance. They can also help you choose from the multiple asset protection strategies you can pursue, ensuring your financial stability in the long run. 

Get adequate sleep 

An article by Hims and Hers indicates that sleep deprivation can be costly for a lot of people, as well as for their mental health.

Sleep deprivation can increase health risks and lead to costly medical bills. It can also impact your ability to bring your best self to work, which may lead to extended unpaid time off. 

Proper sleep also promotes mental clarity, focus, and decision-making, all essential to making better financial decisions. 

Being mindful when planning workloads this holiday season is pivotal to avoiding being overwhelmed when you return to work. Making sure you’re getting quality sleep despite any travel, holiday, or work plans is imperative to managing your holiday budget with care.

Be honest about your holiday budget 

It may feel vulnerable to admit that you’re capping your holiday spending this year. But being honest about where you’re at financially is crucial to getting on the same page with those you’ll be spending the holidays with. And chances are, some of them are in the same boat you’re in. 

When communicating any spending limits, you don’t have to share specific details if you don’t want to. Just keep it simple and solution-focused. 

For instance, instead of saying, “I only have $50 to spend on our outing this weekend,” you might say, “I’ll be there for breakfast, but I’ll need to skip lunch.” 

Stretch your budget with affordable holiday activities 

Replacing expensive activities with affordable ones is an easy way to stretch your holiday budget without compromising on fun. 

Here are some ideas for inspiration:

• Instead of going on a ski trip, attend a lively tree-lighting festival 
• Instead of going to an expensive restaurant, share a cup of hot cocoa by the fire
• Instead of attending a costly cooking class, bake holiday treats at home together
• Instead of going to a comedy club, play group games or group sports 
• Instead of going to the movies, start a holiday book club 
• Instead of shopping for gifts at the mall, host a holiday crafting party 
• Instead of taking an expensive day trip, plan outdoor exploration activities like hiking, bird watching, or creative scavenger hunts 
• Instead of ordering in take-out, make smores and share holiday tales under the stars 

With 30% of consumers intending to spend more on holiday shopping in 2021 than the previous year, it’s imperative to keep an eye on your financial health this holiday season.

Following the six practices we shared today can help you stay on top of your finances and manage your holiday budget.

Planning on using any of these tips? Leave a comment below to let us know how it goes.

The post How to Manage Your Finances Better During the Holiday Season appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Our self-perceptions are in turn influenced by our immediate environment. For instance, If you experienced verbal abuse as a child, it can affect how you see yourself. In most cases, this experience can lead to Imposter Syndrome.

Nevertheless, Imposter Syndrome can be a powerful tool that contributes to your success. That is, you can use the feelings of Imposter syndrome to your advantage. But the question to answer is, “How can my self-doubt become a tool for my success?  Keep reading to find out. 

5 Common Lies That Reinforce Imposter Syndrome  

Studies have shown that about one-third of young people suffer from imposter syndrome. A similar study revealed that 70% of people in the country are likely to be acquainted at some point in their lives.

You would be shocked to also know that very successful people like Maya Angelou and Albert Einstein, add up to this estimate.

“The exaggerated esteem in which my life work is held makes me very ill at ease. I feel compelled to think of myself as an Involuntary swindler” – Albert Einstein 

In a nutshell, the feelings of an imposter are not unique to you. Over time, that feeling of unworthiness is reinforced by our past experiences. These experiences and lies we’ve come to believe over time. So in this section, we’ll debunk some common lies that validate the feelings of self-doubt. 

Lie #1-Mistakes are for Amateurs

Get this; Even the most accomplished people have room for improvement. What this tells you is that mistakes are a part of the learning process, and It’s how we grow. It should never be interpreted as a sign of inefficiency. Mistakes happen so we can learn from them and adjust.

Lie #2 Being a beginner is as good as being incompetent 

Being a beginner at something does not necessarily mean you don’t deserve to be in the room. It just means you have to be willing to show up, learn, and take action. 

Lie #3 You need more experience to get started 

Experience indeed helps you get ahead. But the truth is you might never have all the experience required to get started. But you’ve got to start anyway.

Lie #4 Perfectionism 

The idea that we have to be 100% perfect in everything reinforces the feelings of inadequacy. Especially because the pursuit of perfection is far-fetched. 

Embracing imperfection allows for growth, resilience, and more authentic self-expression. 

Lie #5 Not acknowledging your wins is the same as being Modest

This is a very common one. In the name of being modest, we quickly shrug off our small and big successes. There’s nothing wrong with being modest. But when it becomes an excuse to discredit your abilities and obvious wins, then it is hurtful.

Why Imposter Syndrome Might be a Good Sign 

Consider this;

Why don’t you feel like an Imposter while watching your favorite Netflix series? Or when you’re doing other fun and less important stuff. Something to think about right?

But you can trust that annoying voice to pop into your head when something good happens. Might be when you just got assigned to a big project or got promoted, or you’re trying to apply to a new role. 

If you notice, in each scenario, there’s the need to step out of your comfort zone. And the “uncomfortable” situations have the potential to bring you a lot of success. 

By that token, it becomes clear that the feelings of impostor syndrome are a signal of change and growth. An interesting and science-backed way to flip the script is to embrace the feelings of imposter syndrome. If you think about it, the presence of these feelings points to the fact that you’re trying new things.

5 Research-Backed Tips to Deal with Imposter Syndrome 

Based on research, there are simple ways to deal with impostor syndrome. In this section, we’ll talk about practical ways to escape the self-massacre of imposter syndrome. 

1. Practice Mindfulness 

When self-doubt creeps in, you need to take the upper hand. To have an upper hand, here’s what you should do; Take a deep breath. Now, consider this; If they gave you the role, it means they trust you enough to deliver. And guess what? That happened only because you’ve been killing it. 

2. Give yourself some credit

Give yourself more credit for all that you are and all you have been able to accomplish. Even as a beginner, taking the steps towards growth is worth celebrating. 

3. Take action 

The easiest way to build confidence in yourself is to start taking action. The action here is showing up to do what is needed to become the person you want to be. Every action, every trial, failure, and win, helps you to build competence. 

4. Cognitive restructuring 

Cognitive restructuring is a powerful technique rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Here’s how it works; Identify and catch those thoughts that make you feel like an imposter. Thoughts like” I got lucky” and ” I’m not qualified for this”,  and so on. 

Now, consider the evidence that contradicts these negative thoughts. For instance, if you feel your success is due to luck, challenge this by acknowledging your skills and successes.  Even if you’re still learning the ropes, acknowledge the fact that you’re taking the needed action.

5. Develop a Growth Mindset 

Developing a growth mindset will help you learn from your mistakes rather than beat yourself up about them. It’s important to understand that your failures or mistakes present an opportunity to grow. 

The feelings associated with Imposter Syndrome tend to stick around when you can’t get past the “thinking” phase. The moment you start taking action despite your feelings, you explode the syndrome. 

What you’re doing in that moment, is proving to yourself through actions that you know what you’re doing. If you don’t have the required experience that’s okay. What can you do to have one? Start upskilling, practice, and keep learning. 

Truth be told, you’ll never stop feeling like an imposter until you push through the clench and self-doubts. And how do you do that? By taking action.

However, it’s important to understand that overcoming Imposter Syndrome is a gradual process. As you practice mindfulness, take action, and celebrate your wins, you’ll realize the truth: You’re not an imposter. You’re human, learning and growing on the path to becoming the person you want to be.

The post 5 Surprising Ways to Turn Imposter Syndrome into Your Greatest Ally appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

When you work too hard, your health may start to suffer – whether it’s your sleep, your diet, or even your overall sense of calm and appreciation for life. What’s worse: your kids, friends and loved ones may take notice and suffer right along with you. 

When we don’t find a healthy work/life balance, our personal lives may fall out of tune, and it might even affect our productivity levels and creativity at work, too.

“If you hit a wrong note, it’s the next note that you play that determines if it’s good or bad.” – Miles Davis.

 If you fall behind and start feeling burnt out or are noticing your sleep, overall happiness or health is suffering – it’s ok. It’s just a wake up call. 

This article is about how to find the ‘right note’ when you’ve gone too far into the grind. When your wellbeing is on-point (or close to), your work will be too: past research shows that resting and taking more time for ourselves stimulates creativity, helps you focus better and allows you to get far more done in a lot less time.

Here’s how to let yourself off the hook and give yourself a break.

When it comes to your work life and cultivating harmony, the rule of thumb is to find a 50/50 balance. Balance in and of itself assumes a half-half split, which creates a push and pull, so when you’re working too much, the part of you that needs rest and calm starts to tug at your sleeve – and if you’ve been ‘out of office’ for too long, you’ll feel the nudge to get back to work. 

Have you ever noticed the feeling you have after being on vacation or after a long weekend? You feel more rested, creative and raring to get back to work. 

This is what we want to establish – harmony in our work/life balance, so we’re not avoiding our work, we’re instead, putting our well-being first so that when we do work, it’s easier and more productive. 

Harmony creates a feeling of peace when we shift from one responsibility to another – so rather than stressing or frantically moving from one thing to the next, we do some calmly and with confidence so our stress levels stay down. 

So, what can we do?

You may be thinking, this is all well and great, Lauren, but how do I actually do this in my own chaotic life? 

Simple. Start with putting things in order.

1. Breathe – Okay, okay this may seem obvious. But when you’re in a high cortisol state and are just trying to get through the day to get to your to-do list, taking a long, deep breath (or several breaths) becomes more important than ever. When we experience missteps, it reminds us that we need air. Go outside, take a few breaths, and recenter. 
2. Reset – whether it’s a 5-minute reset in the middle of your day, or a two-week reset to a remote caribbean island, we all need to pause when things feel off. We can’t do good work (or be great parents, partners or friends), when things feel out of sorts. What can we cross off the to-do list and what can we start again?

“Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important.” —Stephen Covey

Do this for your future self

It might feel like a big adjustment taking a few steps back and taking more breaths – because there’s just too much to get done, Lauren! You may be thinking. I hear you and I get it. I used to be there too. 

But the reality is – I knew that if I didn’t slow my roll and take a good, hard look at my health and how I operated everyday, I would never be here talking to you fabulous people about slowing the heck down and creating more space in your mind to do better work and have better health and relationships. It’s also about doing whatever you need to do to create peace of mind, so maybe it isn’t resting right now, but carving out rest for your near future. 

Here’s an example:

Ask yourself: does my present self always love unloading the dishwasher? No! But does my future self love my past self when it’s empty and ready to go? YES. 

Say no, far more often. 

I get it – saying no in a world of ‘yes’ is hard. Does your present self want to say yes, knowing your future self will not want to at the time? Get to know yourself and think for a few beats before saying yes and committing to something you’ll later regret. This will significantly save your energy in the long-run, folks. 

Quit something. Or many things. 

I know this can be hard… but we can’t do it all. Even if it’s something small, take a look at your schedule and note: what engagements, coffee dates, meetings or classes are you not totally psyched about? Drop them. If it’s something that’s meaningful to your heart or that you love doing, keep it. But if you’re doing it out of obligation (or if it’s weighing on your stress), nix it. Your future self will thank you. 

What to do if you’re feeling out of sorts.

We can’t feel good or perfect everyday. Here’s what to do if you’re feeling ‘off’. 

1. Quit trying to be perfect and give yourself a break. Let yourself off the hook and say ‘it’s okay’. 
2. Make a homemade meal. It’s delicious, it’s nutritious and it’s a fun and relaxing activity you can truly enjoy (whether alone or with a friend or loved one). 
3. Quit having the water with lemon before coffee. If you need and love coffee first (it’s me!) then quit. Don’t torture yourself. 
4. Dance. It. Out. Literally and figuratively. The way out of overwhelm is to find the beat that lights you up. The rhythm that ignites your soul and helps find a bridge from chaos to calm. 

When life circumstances happen…

• Remember it’s normal. We can’t control it all: life doesn’t flow like a river – it’s less of a predictable “we will rock you” and more like a “bohemian rhapsody” – a large, free-flowing dramatic piece of work. Take care of yourself in the chaotic times and relish and enjoy the peaceful times. 
• I don’t think life is meant to make sense. We are meant to find joy in our lives, especially in the small things, and this is why gratitude is so popular right now. When life feels uncertain, look up and find a little piece of peace to keep in your pocket. 
• Be still. Sometimes if life is too loud and too much, the only way is stillness. Stillness has the power to keep us calm and bring us out of a funk. 

The post If Your Work/Life Balance is Out of Tune Here’s What to Do appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

“If I’m perfect, no one can ever criticize me.” 

Which isn’t true; we’ll still hear things we don’t want to hear. 

And when we hear things we don’t want to hear, it’s because we didn’t do something good enough.

We have to try harder.

Deeper and deeper into the perfectionism prison we go. 

We grow terrified of being seen and heard and hide behind the facade we believe will protect us. We don’t dare be seen as anything “less than.” 

We become terrified of putting anything out into the world, projects left undone or in a perpetual state of being worked on because they’re not quite “there.”

We live a life that’s not our own; it belongs to the beliefs of what it should be, and we watch helplessly as our world and our place in it diminishes. 

We hide in the open. 

But we double down our efforts because it’s got to work; striving for perfection is a good thing, right?

No one can fault us for not finishing projects because we’re aiming for a “worthwhile” goal. 

We live half an existence, pretending it’s whole and suffering in the disparity.

I’m using “we,” but really, this was my experience with perfectionism, something I still struggle with, and I know I’m not alone. 

“Perfectionism is a twenty-ton shield we lug around thinking it will protect us when, in fact, it’s the thing that’s really preventing us from taking flight.” — Brené Brown

I was imprisoned by perfectionism since about the age of 6 or 7. 

If I didn’t score 100 on every test, I wasn’t good enough or worthy. So began my journey into the prison of perfectionism. 

I was lucky; going to federal prison and essentially losing everything destroyed the illusion of perfectionism and taught me about freedom. 

The facade I’d worked so hard to fabricate was decimated, and I needed to start from scratch.

I didn’t want to recreate what I’d destroyed, even if the comfort of the known called to me. 

I longed to be free, not only from the physical boundaries of prison but from my mental prisons, perfectionism being one of them.

An offshoot of unworthiness, believing I wasn’t enough, and my fear of being seen and heard for who I am. 

Honestly, I don’t know how I would have broken free from perfectionism without going to prison. 

I don’t know if I would have had the awareness and courage to leave the comfort of the cell.

I know this, though: we don’t need to destroy our lives to break free, nor do I suggest it.

Looking back at the decade of rebuilding and reinventing my life, there were tumblers to open the combination lock on my self-imposed prison cell.

I share them here, hoping they help someone walk out of their perfectionism prison cell. 

Mission:

I had an overwhelming desire to give meaning to the suffering my choices created, and one of the ways I knew to do that was to share my story. 

My goal in sharing my story was to help one person. That’s all I wanted, and it’s been my fuel for the past decade. 

A person in pain doesn’t care if a sentence is crafted perfectly; they just don’t want to be in pain anymore. 

Perfection doesn’t help them; honesty, rawness, and vulnerability do. 

And the path to these is paved with sharing mistakes and terrible choices, the antithesis of perfection. 

Serving a mission higher than myself meant embracing mistakes. 

It also transformed into a desire to make more mistakes; if I wasn’t making mistakes, I wasn’t going far enough.

Ending Self-Flagellation/Punishment:

I’d consistently deny myself small acts of joy (for example – watching TV in prison).

Both because I believed I wasn’t worthy of them and because I’d fallen short of my personal expectations of perfection – often unattainable expectations. 

Which creates a wicked cycle. 

The moment I gave myself permission to enjoy small acts like watching TV in prison, I demonstrated great compassion for myself, compassion that was granted in lieu of perfectionism. 

It was granted merely for me being me; I didn’t need to be perfect to feel good. 

Expansion over Contraction:

We can’t fully understand something until we experience its opposite. 

Prison allowed me to understand freedom.

I used to believe that perfectionism would grant me freedom – no one can touch me if I’m perfect. 

I’d be free from all negative judgment.

All the choices I made to create what I believed was the freedom I sought were fear-based. 

Fear is a double-edged sword. 

When I avoid the sharp edge, I shrink my world. 

When I move toward the sharp edge, I expand my world. 

I still avoid the edge, capitulate, and make fear-based choices because I’m human.

But if I degrade myself for doing so, I’m still a prisoner of perfectionism.

I choose expansion. 

Perfectionism is an insidious belief that will slowly shrink and decimate our lives. The first key to unlocking the cell door is hidden in plain sight.

Our desire and need for perfection is a belief, not the truth. 

When we drop the belief and operate from our truth, we change the course of our lives. 

The post Escaping the “Perfect” Trap: How to Find Freedom and Fulfillment appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

This metaphor serves as a reminder that we hold the reins of our destiny, and the choices we make can determine the quality of the journey. So, how can you navigate your life’s ship in the direction of fulfillment?

Let’s embark on this exploration of personal empowerment and self-discovery.

Set Your Course

Just as a ship needs a clear destination, your life requires direction. Start by defining your goals and aspirations. What is it that you truly desire in life? Whether it’s a successful career, meaningful relationships, personal growth, or all of the above, chart your course by setting specific, achievable objectives. When you have a destination in mind, you can better plan your journey.

Consider the following questions:

• What are your long-term and short-term goals?
• What does fulfillment mean to you personally?
• How do you envision your life in the future?

Your answers to these questions will be your North Star, guiding you as you captain your life’s ship.

Hoist the Sails of Self-Discovery

To captain your life effectively, you must understand yourself and your values. This is like learning to navigate your ship through varying weather conditions and terrains.

Self-discovery is a continuous process that involves understanding your strengths, weaknesses, passions, and beliefs.

By knowing yourself, you can make decisions that align with your values and bring you closer to fulfillment.

• Reflect on your past experiences, both positive and negative. What have you learned from them?
• What are your core values and principles? How do they guide your decisions?
• What are your strengths, and how can you leverage them in your journey?
• Identify areas where you’d like to improve or grow.

Just as a ship’s captain knows their vessel inside and out, you should be intimately acquainted with your own capabilities and limitations.

Navigate Challenges with Resilience

Life’s journey is seldom smooth sailing. Storms and obstacles are inevitable, and it’s during these challenging moments that your role as captain becomes crucial. Resilience is the quality that allows you to weather these storms and emerge stronger.

• Embrace a growth mindset. See challenges as opportunities for learning and personal development.
• Cultivate emotional intelligence. Understand and manage your emotions effectively.
• Seek support from your crew, which may include friends, family, mentors, or a support network.
• Maintain a positive attitude and focus on solutions rather than problems.

When you face adversity with resilience, you demonstrate your captaincy over your life’s ship, steering it away from despair and towards fulfillment.

The greatest discovery in life is self-discovery. Until you find yourself you will always be someone else. Become yourself.” – Myles Munroe

Adjust Your Course as Needed

Just as a ship’s captain must constantly adjust the ship’s course to account for changes in the environment, you must be flexible and adaptable in life. The journey to fulfillment is not a straight line, and it’s okay to change your course when necessary. Sometimes, the initial destination you set may not lead to the fulfillment you seek. When this happens, don’t be afraid to alter your path.

• Regularly evaluate your progress and reassess your goals.
• Be open to new opportunities and experiences that may lead to unexpected fulfillment.
• Learn from your mistakes and use them to make more informed decisions.

Flexibility and adaptability are valuable traits that will help you captain your life’s ship more effectively.

Be Mindful of Your Crew

As the captain of your life, you are not alone on this journey. Your life’s ship is filled with a crew of individuals who play important roles in your experiences and fulfillment. This crew includes friends, family, mentors, and even acquaintances who may come and go. It’s essential to recognize the impact of these relationships on your journey.

• Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who uplift and encourage you.
• Foster meaningful and authentic connections with others.
• Seek guidance and wisdom from mentors who have navigated similar paths.
• Be a supportive and compassionate crew member in the lives of those around you.

Remember that the relationships you nurture can either propel you toward fulfillment or weigh you down, so choose your crew wisely.

Embrace the Joys of the Journey

Fulfillment is not solely found at the end of your life’s journey but also in the experiences along the way. Just as a ship’s captain appreciates the beauty of the sea and the sky, you should take the time to savor the moments in your life. These moments may be small victories, moments of connection, or simply the joy of pursuing your passions.

• Practice gratitude for the present moment.
• Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.
• Make time for self-care and relaxation to recharge your energy.
• Stay open to the unexpected pleasures and joys life offers.

By embracing the joys of the journey, you’ll find that fulfillment becomes a constant companion, not just a distant destination.

Your life is indeed your ship, and you are its captain. With a clear course, self-discovery, resilience, adaptability, and the support of a meaningful crew, you have the power to captain your journey toward fulfillment. Every decision you make, every challenge you face, and every moment you savor contributes to the legacy of your voyage.

So, set your course, navigate with purpose, and enjoy the beauty of the journey. Fulfillment is not a destination; it is a way of traveling through life as the captain of your own ship.

The post Your Life, Your Ship: How to Captain Your Journey to Self-Fulfillment appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

In this article, we will explore the great impact of Stoicism and Minimalism on our lives and the transformative benefits of incorporating them into our daily lives.

The Essence of Stoicism

Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium around 300 BCE. It teaches us to focus on what we can control and accept what we cannot. At its core, Stoicism is about cultivating resilience, wisdom, and inner peace in the face of life’s challenges.

Emotional Resilience

Stoicism teaches us to acknowledge and regulate our emotions. By practicing emotional detachment and rational thinking, we can better navigate the ups and downs of life. When we understand that external events are beyond our control, we learn to channel our energy into mastering our reactions.

Living in the Present

Stoicism encourages us to live in the present moment. By letting go of regrets about the past and anxieties about the future, we find contentment in the here and now. This mindfulness fosters a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

Freedom through Simplicity

Stoicism’s emphasis on minimalism is evident in its approach to material possessions. By reducing our attachment to material things, we free ourselves from the burden of constant desire. This freedom allows us to focus on what truly matters: our character, virtues, and relationships.

“Stoicism teaches that we can’t control or rely on anything outside what Epictetus called our “reasoned choice” – our ability to use our reason to choose how we categorize, respond, and reorient ourselves to external events.” — Ryan Holiday

The Essence of Minimalism

Minimalism is a lifestyle philosophy that gained popularity in recent years. It advocates for simplifying our lives by decluttering both physical possessions and mental distractions. Minimalism is not about deprivation but rather about focusing on what adds value and meaning to our lives.

Clarity and Purpose

Minimalism helps us cut through the noise of consumerism and endless distractions. By decluttering our physical and digital spaces, we create room for clarity and purpose. We can better identify what truly matters and allocate our time and energy accordingly.

Reduced Stress and Overwhelm

In a world filled with constant stimuli, minimalism offers a refuge from the overwhelming influx of information and material possessions. Simplifying our environment and commitments reduces stress and fosters a sense of calm and tranquility.

Financial Freedom

Minimalism often leads to more mindful spending. By prioritizing needs over wants, we can save money, pay off debt, and achieve financial freedom. This financial stability provides peace of mind and opens up opportunities for experiences that enrich our lives.

The Synergy of Stoicism and Minimalism

While Stoicism and Minimalism are distinct philosophies, they complement each other beautifully, creating a powerful synergy that can transform our lives.

Cultivating Resilience

Stoicism’s emphasis on emotional resilience helps us navigate the challenges of adopting a minimalist lifestyle. When we encounter resistance to letting go of possessions or simplifying our lives, Stoic principles can guide us through the process with patience and fortitude.

Prioritizing What Truly Matters

Together, these philosophies encourage us to prioritize what truly matters in life. We learn to let go of the unnecessary distractions and material possessions that weigh us down, allowing us to focus on relationships, personal growth, and experiences that bring us joy and fulfillment.

Finding Contentment

The goal of Stoicism and Minimalism is to find contentment and inner peace. By embracing these philosophies, we can escape the cycle of constant desire and comparison that often leads to discontentment. Instead, we find contentment in the present moment and in the simplicity of our lives.

Practical Steps to Embrace Stoicism and Minimalism

1. Start with Self-Awareness: Reflect on your values and priorities. What truly matters to you? What possessions or distractions no longer align with these values?
2. Declutter Mindfully: Begin by decluttering your physical space. Donate, sell, or recycle items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. Gradually extend this process to your digital life and commitments.
3. Practice Stoic Principles: Study Stoic philosophy and incorporate its principles into your daily life. Learn to differentiate between what’s within your control and what isn’t. Practice emotional resilience and mindfulness.
4. Set Minimalist Goals: Set specific minimalist goals, such as reducing your wardrobe or cutting back on digital screen time. Start small and gradually expand your minimalist practices.
5. Seek Support: Join minimalist or Stoic communities, both online and offline, to connect with like-minded individuals who can offer guidance and support on your journey.

The impact of Stoicism and Minimalism on our lives cannot be overstated. These philosophies guide us toward emotional resilience, simplicity, and contentment in an increasingly complex world. By embracing Stoicism’s wisdom and Minimalism’s clarity, we can create a life that is truly meaningful, purposeful, and fulfilling.

Remember that the journey toward a more Stoic and minimalist existence is a lifelong one, filled with growth and self-discovery, but the rewards are boundless—a life rich in meaning, wisdom, and inner peace.

The post How to Combine Stoic and Minimalist Principles for Optimal Living appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

I’ve never been more passionate about my work, and a newfound sense of calm flows through my days. I have faced many challenges in my life: divorce, romantic struggles, motherhood and a professional career that has drastically shifted not just once, but twice. 

It took me decades to take command as the designer of my life. I realized building a life is not something one does with a wandering mind and insecure fears. Our lives can only be created with real commitment. 

Hence, feet — two of them in particular — should be planted firmly in the world in which we want to live.

The world extends outward, from our minds to the space around us. Life is a four-dimensional object, with time included. We can map the territory and plot the land. Our lives are homes we build for ourselves and those we love. 

How we feel about ourselves affects how we feel about our surroundings. We must consciously cultivate our internal and external worlds to reflect not just who we want to become—but who we truly are. 

“If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much.” – Jim Rohn

Becoming the designer of your own life can be broken into four stages. This can be the work of a lifetime:

1. First, the foundations must be laid. This can go as far back as your early childhood and upbringing. Foundational pieces range from your parent’s discipline style to the living environment of your childhood. Your early school and friendship dynamics are critical here. The memories and experiences of our youth leave an imprint in that beginning stage of who you are. Foundations can be first loves, first jobs, or first experiences that drive an inner passion toward the life you want to live.
2. Then, the framing will be measured, cut, and established. The framing of one’s life can begin with choices for schooling after high school, a geographic choice for starting your adult life, or an industry selected for a potential career. Finding a person to marry and deciding to have children are also important components to the framing of our lives. These are the walls that will support us through the ups and downs of life.
3. From there, the finish work hones in on the smallest details that make all the difference. Developing into a parent and navigating the paths of marriage will require great finish work while you grow and evolve into a more in-depth person. Deciding on a parenting style, and on the critical values you wish to instill in your children, will become the foundations of their lives. Learning how to maintain a sense of self while balancing parenthood and working presents a continual test of our finish work. As careers develop, decisions are often presented that allow for finishing choices with our professions. Management, increased job responsibilities, new career choices, and often new employment locations are all details that help refine our lives. The roles of self-care, nutrition, exercise, and life/work balance all come into play heavily during this stage.
4. Finally, we must bring our innate sense of design to life, curating and creating the spaces in which we can thrive. Taking full command of the design of our lives is where the hard work of earlier years often shines through. What life details make us feel that we are truly living? That could be the location of your home, your developed career path that might be ready for a tweak, or a need to focus inward to find a greater sense of peace in your life.

My designed life has led me down a variety of paths. 

My foundation started as a child with divorced parents in a household that lacked love and a sense of emotional connection. 

The framing of my life was built on a career in sales, two divorces and becoming a mother (my daughter is now 17). 

The finish work took shape when I had to learn to decide which should come first: life or career. I started listening to my body and the signs it was giving around my health, both physically and mentally. 

The design of my life has enabled me to change careers and start my own interior design business in addition to writing my memoir. This stage has exposed me to the importance of mindset and being the creator of my happiness.

As you reflect on designing your life, your tools are not just hammers, nails, paint, tiles — but chosen family, love, self-care, and wellness. From this, we all can build lives we never imagined possible. 

I finally have my fabled “house on the hill,” but it started out looking like a rather patchy piece of empty land. That’s how all things look in the beginning, though, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Just flip your mindset — and that emptiness becomes pure, glowing potential.

The post Foundation to Flourish: The 4 Stages to Designing Your Perfect Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

In this article, I’ll share 7 steps to cultivate non-attachment and embrace change. Drawing from my experiences as a serial entrepreneur and certified holistic coach, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of releasing unhelpful attachments. Letting go not only fosters a sense of balance and reduces inner turmoil, but it also clears the path to achieving our goals.

The journey begins with self-reflection but leads to aligned action.

1. Identify Your Attachments

The first step towards non-attachment is increasing self-awareness. Take some time for honest self-reflection and make a list of things, people, expectations, and situations you feel attached to. This can include attachments to material possessions, relationships, accolades, identifying with status or career titles, needing to be perfect, and holding onto expectations of how things “should” be. 

Dig deep to unveil the underlying insecurities, fears, and desires for comfort/control that may drive your attachments. Bringing these attachments into conscious awareness diminishes their power and creates psychological space between you and your attachments. Regular self-reflection will reveal new attachments as they arise so you can continue disidentifying from them.

2. Understand the Root Causes

Once you have identified your attachments, the next step is understanding why you have become attached. Ask yourself reflective questions to get at the root causes and underlying emotions. Are you attached because it provides you comfort or a sense of self-worth? Are you overly attached to an expectation because underneath it lies a fear of failure or rejection?

Unpacking the reasons behind your attachments creates space between your sense of self and the attachments, loosening their grip. It also builds self-knowledge about your emotional triggers. Analyzing your attachments from this introspective vantage point diminishes their control over you. 

Keep digging below the surface through journaling, discussion, and meditation. The deeper awareness you build around why you cling to certain attachments, the more freedom you will gain from their constraints moving forward.

3. Reflect on Impermanence

A powerful mindset shift for cultivating non-attachment is deeply reflecting on the impermanent nature of all things. Remind yourself that nothing in life stays the same forever. Change is the only constant. People, possessions, and situations will all inevitably change and fade with time. Reflect on and accept the transience of the attachments you cling to.

 Visualize how these things will fade or be lost over time. This practice of contemplating impermanence allows you to loosen the grip of attachment and lean into change with more grace and equanimity when it unfolds. 

Shift your perspective to appreciate things in the present moment without expecting permanence. Let go of the tendency to cling and control. By internalizing the impermanence of what you’re attached to, you can appreciate life’s temporary gifts without clinging to them.

“By non-attachment, you overcome and deny the power of anything to act upon you.” – Swami Vivekananda

4. Focus On What You Can Control

Focus on what matters most to you and use it as a compass for making decisions. When the pull of attachment arises, remind yourself that this is not aligned with your core values. Ask yourself if continuing down this attachment route will bring you closer to or further away from your purpose. 

For example, if one of your values is freedom, but you’re clinging to a situation, it’s unlikely aligned with that goal. 

Reorienting your attention to what you can control—your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—grounds you in the present moment and helps direct your energy away from unhelpful attachments. With an increased sense of agency over how you interact with your environment, non-attachment becomes more attainable.

5. Practice Gratitude and Appreciation

Shift your focus from what you lack to the abundance around you. Gratitude acts as an antidote to attachment. Appreciating what you have in the present diminishes the desire for more or different. Start each day listing things you’re grateful for, regardless of their size. This practice reorients your perspective, grounding you in the moment’s richness. 

Over time, the need for external validation or possessions weakens, nurturing contentment. Gratitude not only combats feelings of deficiency but also builds a foundation for embracing Change. Celebrating the present, you free yourself from the chains of attachments and cultivate an open heart ready for life’s evolving experiences.

6. Meditate on Non-Judgement

Meditation is a profound tool to cultivate non-attachment, particularly when focusing on practicing non-judgment. In the landscape of our minds, thoughts, feelings, and sensations come and go. Observing them without labeling them as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ develops a sense of neutrality and equanimity. 

Sit quietly and observe your thoughts without trying to change or engage with them. Simply witness them, recognizing that they are transitory and not a part of your essential being. 

Over time, this practice illuminates the nature of attachments as temporary and not inherently defining. Such dispassionate observation cultivates a deeper realization that you are separate from your thoughts or emotions. This realization significantly reduces the hold of attachments, guiding the mind away from judgment and reaction.

7. Take Action Aligned With Your Values

Alignment with one’s values offers a focused path, contrasting the swaying influence of attachments that are often driven by fleeting emotions or societal expectations. It’s essential to periodically reassess these core values, grounding decisions and actions in what truly matters. 

When decisions are rooted in these values, choices become intuitive and genuine. For instance, if authenticity is a key value, making choices merely to fit in would feel disjointed. However, expressing genuine thoughts would resonate more deeply. Consistently choosing based on values diminishes the pull of attachments, leading to a life more in sync with one’s true essence.

In my personal journey, I’ve often grappled with letting go of preconceived ideas about my path and expected outcomes. This realization and the wisdom I’ve garnered as a holistic coach and entrepreneur have taught me the transformative power of non-attachment. 

Embracing the seven steps and truly trusting the process, I’ve found that things began to flow more organically in my life. Our paths are often not linear, nor are they pre-defined. 

Shedding the weight of these attachments frees us and opens doors to unimaginable possibilities. Remember, when we let go of how we think things should be, we make room for the beauty of what they can become.

The post 7 Steps for Achieving Non-Attachment and Embracing Change appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

After the meditation a thought came to me; “In order to hold more light, one must be unafraid to experience more darkness”.

Fearing the (flying) light

In my homeland of Curaçao, fireflies are a rarity, unlike all the ones I saw in Costa Rica at the age of six while on vacation with my family. Once, while playing late at the playground near the jungle the fireflies emerged. 

Triggering an overwhelming fear within me. I ran to our room and avoided the jungle’s darkness from that day on. I had no idea what the flying lights were and they scared me shitless.

During the meditation, I was led to think of fireflies in the usual way I would think about them today; as magical harmless creatures that light up the sky. Which is the opposite of how I thought about them at six years old.

To see fireflies, it needs to be dark. The darker it is, the easier it is to see them. But how does this philosophy translate into practical terms? How can we integrate this principle into our pursuit of goals and purpose? 

Easy, this philosophy urges us to recognize that setbacks, failures, and discomfort are not detours but integral components of our journey. Just as success coexists with challenges, it’s crucial to make space for both ends of the spectrum.

Success and its challenges

There’s a proverb in Dutch that translates to “Tall trees catch more wind”. Tall trees that rise above the rest are exposed to more elements, including wind. So it is with high-ranking successful people. 

They are more susceptible to challenges, hatred, opposition, and failure. In contrast, not pursuing success and growth means staying in one’s comfort zone.

We all know that to succeed one needs to be comfortable being uncomfortable. However, most people are unaware that this is what’s holding them back. 

They’re so used to avoiding and pushing through their feelings. Especially if it means dealing with “negative emotions”. Their fear of the darkness is what holds them back from experiencing the light that they’re craving. 

At the same time, sometimes we’re afraid of the light. Like my experience with fireflies in Costa Rica. I wasn’t afraid of the darkness, just the weird flying lights. The fear of success and the fear of failure are different sides of the same coin. 

To experience more success and growth, one must be able to fully embrace the darkness. To dissolve the fear of the darkness. To become completely unafraid of the possible challenges that may come. 

“You will fear the darkness only to the extent that you yourself are not providing light.” — Marianne Williamson

Pushing through is not the answer

Pushing through or ignoring fears, however, works counterproductive. It may work for a while but eventually, it will come back and bite you in the ass. Facing fears through mindset work works. 

Understanding that fear is an emotion, that our bodies hold on to these emotions, and being able to alchemize these emotions into something positive is a next-level experience. It truly allows anyone to hold more light and be unafraid of the darkness. In essence, it allows us to expand our comfort zone.

The easy way out

We all want the easy way out. It’s easy! Not many understand how facing our emotions, makes things so much easier. That’s because it isn’t easy on the surface. We’re not taught to do it, it’s not popular and it is uncomfortable. 

It’s the darkness that we need to walk through to get to the light. Sometimes with a lot of faith while there’s still no sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. 

Practical tools to dissolve the fear

Emotions are stored in our body like muscle memory. Even if it’s a one-time event it can stay in the body. Especially if it’s a traumatic experience. Our bodies hold on to emotions like this to protect us from experiencing uncomfortable feelings.

To release what’s in the body, Somatic healing modalities are necessary. Things like Breathwork, EFT Tapping, shaking, Yoga, and meditation work well. Somatic healing modalities are anything that bypasses the mind to go straight to the body. 

Which not only can dissolve the fears in the body but can also activate our intuition. After all, it was a meditation that brought about the philosophy on which this entire article is based.

Being unafraid of the darkness

The dance between darkness and light is woven into the very fabric of our being. Just like fireflies casting their enchanting light into the night, we have the power to discover deep insights and inner strength when we embrace the shadows within us. 

In our pursuit of bigger goals, let’s keep in mind that our ability to shine brighter is tied to our courage to journey through the darkness.

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“It’s important to show up authentically so that genuine intimacy [can be shared]. Intimacy helps people feel safe, share their struggles and their joys and develop a deep level of closeness. When we do not show up authentically…the level of closeness [within a relationship] will be limited”.

These principles are also true as it relates to cultivating a community around your brand or business because, as the old adage says, people will only do business with people that they know, like and trust. But how do we go about achieving this? 

Sheryl Lee Ralph’s recent Ted talk is a masterclass on exactly what it takes to show up authentically as it relates to her.

#1 Personal styling

From your religious beliefs, nationality, favourite genre of music to your personality- “style is a way to say who you are without saying a word” (Rachel Zoe). With this in mind, it’s worth noting that Sheryl Lee Ralph was communicating before she even began her speech and that her style of dress (a blue pantsuit with a sprinkle of sequence on it, accompanied by lashes, a bold lip and sleek ponytail) was more than likely a deliberate choice.

Whether you are as deliberate about how you present yourself or not, it is important to realise that you too are sending a message to those who come across you (online or in person). One way to ensure that you are conveying the right one is to style yourself in a way that is true to who you are.

#2 Brand story

Another thing that Ralph would have contemplated before she said a word is the topic of her talk. When you consider the positive impact that she made in 2022 by winning an Emmy for best supporting actress in a comedy as a first-time nominee at the age of 66 (despite a 40 year acting career), it becomes immediately obvious why she settled upon “A 3-step Guide to Believing in Yourself”. 

As she declared during her (Emmy) acceptance speech “To anyone who has ever, ever had a dream and thought your dream wasn’t, wouldn’t, couldn’t come true, I am here to tell you that this is what believing looks like”. In that moment her brand story became one of self-belief and it is that brand story that has led to increased opportunities such as her aforementioned Ted talk. 

With this example in mind, it becomes clear that showing up authentically also means taking the trials and triumphs of your industry experience and sharing them in such a way that it captures your audience and causes them to take inspired action.

#3 Use of language

Apart from demonstrating how to leverage her brand story to reach a wider audience, Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Ted talk is a case study in the art of storytelling. As the old marketing adage goes, “facts tell; stories sell” so Ralph does not simply serve up the 3 steps to believing in yourself and walk off stage- she illustrates each point by telling relevant stories from her life. 

One of the main ways that she does this is through the use of humour and colloquialisms such as “shooketh,” “check up from the neck up” and, at one point, employing a Jamaican accent. In so doing, she solidifies her authority, credibility and expertise in the subject matter and makes herself more relatable to her audience in the process. 

What this demonstrates is that language can also be a unifying factor; so it’s important to punctuate your story with words that are authentic to you and will resonate with your ideal client as well.

#4 Unique Selling Point (USP)

Another thing that makes Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Ted Talk come alive is the way that she leverages her USP of being both an actress and singer. By using talents that come naturally to her, she is able to masterfully embody the characters and emotions that she describes within her stories and further impress her point(s) through song. 

This also serves as a way to stand out from the sea of other speakers that have graced the Ted stage. Likewise, “if you don’t distinguish yourself from the crowd, you’ll just be in the crowd” (Rebecca Mark). In other words, it’s important not to conform to industry standards so much so that you fail to differentiate yourself from everyone else. 

By doing this you will use “your value proposition [to] answer…the question: Why should I buy from you and not your competitor” (Neil Patel).

Since people will only do business with people that they know, like and trust, it is important to show up and represent your brand/business as authentically as possible. 

This can be achieved in a number of ways including your personal style, stories and use of your innate gifts and talents (amongst other things). 

It is my hope that this article will help you to implement this within your current visibility strategy.

The post How to Show Up Authentically According to Sheryl Lee Ralph appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Talents come in various formats. Skills develop well when there is a natural aptitude and interest. Try to identify your interest first and those will lead you to your aptitude. Assess your strengths and weaknesses. 

Whether you are an engineer or an Economics graduate or a student of History, try to understand which part of your academics pulls you the most or which subjects you score easily. Identify the talent inbuilt in you. 

Read more, and discuss your thoughts with professors and friends, to develop your skill. 

Merits of self-awareness

Being self-aware helps you understand yourself very well and get along with others easily. It improves your emotional intelligence and builds your leadership abilities. Emotional Intelligence is the art of controlling and expressing one’s emotions judiciously, to influence and inspire interpersonal relationships. 

Emotional intelligence stands on four pillars ― self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management. 

Self-awareness helps you correct your mistakes quickly and bounce back from failures effectively. You accept your flaws and earn respect from others. It promotes tolerance toward others’ ideas and views.

It helps you remove negative thoughts from your mind and replace them with positive thoughts. It helps you manage your time and prioritize your tasks. It helps you embrace change and enhance adaptability. 

As human beings, we make many mistakes but we must learn to accept them graciously to grow as leaders. 

This is possible only when you are aware of yourself. For instance, Warren Buffett makes a decision and analyzes his decision later. It helps him understand his decisions and assess his progress. 

Self-awareness builds your self-confidence. It helps you understand who you are as a person, professional, and social animal. It helps you achieve success quickly and provide meaning to your life.

“To have greater self-awareness or understanding means to have a better grasp of reality.” – Dalai Lama

Tips, tools, and techniques to enhance self-awareness 

Self-awareness leads to self-assessment and self-improvement. It helps leaders understand themselves and overcome their blind spots.  Here are some popular tips, tools, and techniques to enhance self-awareness. 

• Undertake Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test to understand your personality type. It helps you get along with others easily. 
• Invest some time every day to reflect ― before you sleep, think of the whole day you spent. What was the best thing you did throughout the day? What was the best thing that happened to you, though you didn’t plan it? What was the worst? If you could change one thing about the day, what would it be and how? Answers to such questions will prepare you for a better “next time”.
• Record your thoughts in your journal and analyze them after a few days. It helps you understand and assess yourself. 
• Find out what turns you on and off. Try out new things and make a note of what you enjoyed and what you did not. For example, some people feel energized by dancing, and some feel rejuvenated by settling on the couch with a book. Knowing what you enjoy and what you do not talks a lot about your personality. 
• Set your goals and work on them. You understand your real capacities and can unlock your hidden potential. What do you want 5 years from now? Write them down. Those are your long-term goals. Make sure they are realistic for you. Going to the moon would not be a realistic goal if you are pursuing your graduation in English Literature. Once the long-term goals are charted out, break them into milestones. Form yearly goals that will lead you toward long-term goals. Those are your short-term goals. 
• Cultivate the art of writing. It helps you explore your mind and vent your feelings and emotions. It could be a fiction story or your feelings about some social issue. Or just something that happened at home. Maintain a diary. If there is something you didn’t like, write down what you can do in your personal capacity to change that. This will change you as a person, for the better. 
• Read books regularly. If you are not a natural reader, start with subjects that interest you. Books lead you to a world that you haven’t experienced. Put yourself in those situations and think about what you would do. Analyze the book and review it.
• Write your failure resume. Do this as honestly as possible. Write down every personal, social, academic, or professional failure that has disturbed you. Writing is letting go of the burden from your brain. Now ask yourself, what should have been the more appropriate route that you should have taken but did not.
• Have an open mind and listen to all sources. The art of listening is very important. Even if you don’t agree with someone, it doesn’t mean the other person is wrong. It just means the other person has a different perspective. Understanding that will enhance your flexibility. 
• Hire a coach who can help you overcome your blind spots to grow as a professional and leader. Choose judiciously. This person should lead you towards something big instead of pulling you down because of his own limitations. Your love for someone may not qualify him for a mentor. Who would you want to be like? And why? Make a list. Those are the people who should be your mentor.
• Take feedback from others. Do not judge if they say something unpleasant. Unpleasant conversations are difficult, but if steered positively, they help in developing long-term trust. What you think of yourself is just one aspect of your personality. What others think of you is another. Both are equally valid. Figure what you would like to change in what others think of you. Work towards that with a plan.

Most people overestimate their skills and underestimate their talents. Additionally, they overestimate themselves and underestimate others. Having self-awareness helps them estimate themselves and others accurately.  

Only when you know about yourself properly, you will be able to lead others. It is observed that people often complain, criticize, and condemn others without introspecting about themselves. This is due to the lack of self-awareness. 

People with self-awareness work with what they have, and from where they are to excel as achievers and leaders. When you want to understand others, you must understand yourself first. 

When you want to understand yourself first, you must have self-awareness. When you want to lead others, you must know how to lead yourself. 

When you want to lead yourself first, you must have self-awareness.

Hence, self-awareness is the first step to developing leadership qualities. To conclude, acquire self-awareness to excel as an extraordinary achiever and leader. 

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Really, we shouldn’t be surprised. Leading change can be like herding cats, and yet, some leaders excel at encouraging people to move in a new direction. 

While we often avoid talking about the pandemic these days, there is no denying that it proved how those with the ability to shift direction quickly were able to leap ahead, capturing a strategic advantage. And that is why I differentiate change management from leadership. 

Managing change is reactive. Surfing waves is fun, but you can only go where the waves take you. They will roll over you if you are not fast enough. Change leadership creates change whenever possible to get ahead of the competition, and proactively empowers people to shape and transform the waves that are unavoidable, harnessing them to provide the most benefit.

Management is a follower’s game. Great leaders create change based on great strategy.

Leading change is a proactive partnership between employees and leaders to ensure strategic, necessary change works to the greatest benefit of the organization and its stakeholders. But there is always that risk of resistance.

The good news is that there are four proven steps you can take to predict the response to change and help people embrace it successfully:

1. Step into their shoes

This is the hardest part for leaders. Leaders commonly overestimate their understanding of what employees are thinking and feeling. Gather a group of employees and explain the destination. Ask them what they think it will take to get there, and what they think has to happen. Ask them what they need. Weave their input into your description of the journey. This is an important step to generate buy-in.

“Yes, your transformation will be hard. Yes, you will feel frightened, messed up and knocked down. Yes, you’ll want to stop. Yes, it’s the best work you’ll ever do.” — Robin Sharma

2. Ask for “likes”

Once people understand the goal, would they give the concept a thumbs up or a thumbs down? Do they like it? It’s very hard to get people moving towards a goal if they don’t like it or don’t believe it’s necessary. Ask them, and get clarity on why they don’t like it. Objections tell you where you need to build up messaging that will appeal to your resistors.

3. Test for landmines

As you continue to develop your messaging about “the change,” explain the journey to get to the goal and ask, “What could go wrong?” “What will you need to be successful?” Employees are pretty good at identifying the pitfalls that are invisible to leaders. They know how this will affect their daily work. They know what customers will think. They know which peers will resist and why. Let them guide you.

When a goal is undesirable and littered with landmines, it’s a recipe for resistance. Focus your change leadership efforts on those that envision the most problems.

4. Engage and involve

The first three steps enable you to understand the challenge fully so that you can build a plan that moves people in the right direction. Equipped with that input, you can:

• Emphasize benefits of the change that have particular appeal for your employees (from their point of view, not yours!).
• Explain how you will support and equip employees to be successful through change (defusing landmines).
• Involve those most likely to resist, empowering them to help their peers as they also help themselves by shaping the journey through change.
• Listen actively to feedback from those that must embrace the change, and continue to respond and modify your messaging and path forward as needed.
• Recognize every step in the right direction, reinforcing the change you are hoping to achieve.

Resistance can throw your entire program off track. It only takes one to lure others to the dark side.

Use these steps to get out in front and scout for issues before they arise. We can’t avoid all of the problems and we may not have an answer to every objection, but acknowledging that we’ve done our homework, have solved what we can, and empathize with the pain that will be endured goes a long way to silencing the objectors and encouraging everyone else.

The post Resistance is Real: 4 Steps to Lead People Through Transformation appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

They possess a positive, determined, and strong attitude. They associate with positive people and create a healthy circle. They are optimistic and confident with a long-term vision. They do not go by short-term temptations. 

Here are some popular tips to develop a mindset for success. 

• Listen to motivational audio or view videos. Read self-improvement books to elevate your mood levels and lift your energies. 
• Look at the open door, and not at the closed one. Look for opportunities, not threats. Focus on your strengths, not weaknesses. 
• Surround yourself with cheerful friends. Create a healthy zone to recharge your batteries regularly. 
• Attend motivational seminars and workshops. Network with like-minded people. 
• Set SMART goals. SMART is the acronym for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. Goals remove negative thoughts from your mind and replace them with positive thoughts. 

Develop a mindset for growth 

Success lies within your mind and depends on cultivating the right mindset. Understanding this basic principle makes it easy to develop a mindset for growth. When you want to achieve success, you must visualize success within your mind. 

You must have heard the slogan, a battle is won twice: first in your mind and second in real life. Everything boils down to your mindset. There are two types of mindsets — fixed mindset and growth mindset.

People with a growth mindset have the potential to achieve extraordinary success while people with a fixed mindset remain in mediocrity. 

Fixed-mindset versus growth-mindset

People with a fixed mindset assume that their talents, skills, abilities, and intelligence are fixed and cannot be developed further. On the other hand, people with a growth mindset strongly believe that their strengths can be reinforced by reading, writing, teaching, training, experience, and practice. 

People with a fixed mindset have an external locus of control, as their minds are governed by things happening in other people’s life. People with a growth mindset have an internal locus of control. They don’t get demotivated when others do well. Rather they learn from others’ success to apply it in their own life. 

While the former is in the comfort zone and risk-averse, the latter is out of the comfort zone and risk-takers. People with a fixed mindset take failure as a full stop and believe in destiny. People with a growth mindset take failure as a comma and create their destiny. 

Have you ever wondered why some people grow so fast and others lag? Many will explain that it is the person’s PR skills with the seniors or just luck. Those who call this luck or politics are those with a fixed mindset. No negative effort can ever bear a long-term positive result. 

That one person surged ahead simply because he has a growth mindset. People with a fixed mindset are complacent while people with a growth- mindset are ambitious with an appetite for learning and development. 

People with a fixed mindset often take a long time to move up the growth ladder while people with a growth mindset make it faster. People with a fixed mindset could be great executors but those with a growth mindset are visionaries.

Some individuals had an average intelligence in their teens but over the years, grew extraordinarily intelligent because of their growth- mindset. Similarly, some individuals remained average in intelligence forever because of their fixed mindset. 

Everything is there in the mind. The evolution of the mind from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset is essential to provide meaning to your life. 

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.”  — Henry David Thoreau

Reach your full potential

There are several innovative ways to reach your full potential. Most people do not reach their full potential due to phobias, fears, superstitions, or mental barriers. If they overcome these they will be able to reach their full potential and achieve success. 

People have several fears such as the fear of criticism, failure, old age, ill-health, and poverty. As a result, they play safe. A ship is safe in the harbor but it is not meant for that. We are gifted with life and we must know how to utilize this opportunity to grow and make a difference in our lives as well as the life of others.

Most people set goals but they are not serious and committed to accomplishing them. They do not invest their efforts wholeheartedly, ending up in mediocrity. When you want an exceptional outcome, you must invest exceptional efforts. 

I discovered my love for learning in childhood. But I discovered my love for teaching, training, and research in my mid-forties. If I had discovered them earlier, I would have achieved extraordinary success long ago. 

When you want to achieve your full potential, you must discover your inborn talents in your early life and develop skills around them. Skills can be cultivated by training, reading, experience, and observation. 

Only when you blend your inborn talents with skills effectively, you will be able to reach your full potential and achieve success.

Everyone has potential. However, only a few unlock them and achieve success. They are the ones who are at the right place at the right time. To ensure such alignment, it is essential to hire coaches and mentors.

Over to you!

Nobody can stop you from achieving success except your mind. People often have mental limitations that stifle their advancement and growth. They must remove such mental blocks and limitations with a scientific approach. They must understand first the causes of their mental blocks and remove them through practice gradually.

It is easy to develop a mindset for success. The person you are today is the person you wanted to be a few years ago. You chose to be what you are today. Similarly, make a choice today to be the type of person you want to be in the future. 

Everything is possible when you dream big with a strong vision and the correct mindset. Develop such a successful mindset today to become the type of person you want to be in the future. 

When you have the right mindset, you can save time, money, and energy. When you have the mindset for success, you can add value to others and make a difference in their lives.

The post How to Reach Your Full Potential and Achieve Everything You’ve Ever Wanted appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Understanding Intentional Minimalism

Intentional minimalism is not about depriving yourself or living with the bare minimum. Instead, it is a deliberate and mindful choice to focus on what adds value to your life while eliminating unnecessary distractions and excess. It encourages you to evaluate your priorities, declutter your physical and mental spaces, and create room for what truly brings you joy and fulfillment.

The Benefits of Intentional Minimalism

1. Mental Clarity and Reduced Stress

By simplifying your surroundings and reducing clutter, intentional minimalism helps create a sense of mental clarity. A clutter-free environment allows your mind to relax and focus on the present moment, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. With fewer distractions, you can better concentrate on your goals, passions, and relationships.

2. Enhanced Productivity

Minimalism promotes a more efficient use of time and resources. By removing unnecessary possessions, commitments, and obligations, you free up valuable mental and physical space. This newfound simplicity allows you to prioritize your tasks and allocate your time and energy to what truly matters, leading to increased productivity and a greater sense of accomplishment.

3. Financial Freedom

Embracing intentional minimalism often involves evaluating your spending habits and making conscious choices about your purchases. By adopting a more mindful approach to consumerism, you can save money and break free from the cycle of materialistic desires. Financial freedom comes from understanding that true happiness and fulfillment lie in experiences and relationships, rather than material possessions.

Incorporating Intentional Minimalism into Your Life

1. Decluttering Your Physical Space

Start by decluttering your physical environment. Sort through your belongings and identify items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. Donate or sell these items, creating a space that is free from unnecessary clutter. Organize the remaining possessions in a way that promotes simplicity and ease of use.

2. Streamlining Your Digital Life

In today’s digital age, it is essential to extend minimalism to our online lives as well. Unsubscribe from unnecessary email subscriptions, delete unused apps and files, and organize your digital documents and photos. This digital decluttering will help reduce digital noise and improve your focus.

3. Mindful Consumption

Adopting intentional minimalism involves being mindful of your consumption habits. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item aligns with your values and brings genuine value to your life. Focus on quality rather than quantity, and prioritize experiences over material possessions.

4. Cultivating Mindfulness and Gratitude

Practicing mindfulness and gratitude are integral parts of intentional minimalism. Take time each day to appreciate the simple joys and blessings in your life. Engage in activities that bring you peace and rejuvenation, such as meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. Cultivating a grateful mindset can shift your focus from what what you lack to what you already have, fostering contentment and fulfillment.

“Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it.” – Joshua Becker

5. Prioritizing Experiences and Relationships

Intentional minimalism encourages you to prioritize experiences and relationships over material possessions. Instead of accumulating more things, focus on creating meaningful memories and building connections with loved ones. Invest your time and resources in activities that bring joy, growth, and shared experiences with others.

6. Simplifying Your Schedule

In our busy lives, it’s easy to overcommit and feel overwhelmed by endless to-do lists. Intentional minimalism urges you to simplify your schedule by identifying your core values and priorities. Learn to say no to unnecessary obligations and make room for activities that align with your passions and bring you true fulfillment.

7. Embracing a Minimalist Wardrobe

One area where intentional minimalism can have a significant impact is your wardrobe. Instead of filling your closet with endless options, embrace a minimalist wardrobe by curating a collection of high-quality, versatile pieces that you truly love and wear regularly. Simplifying your clothing choices can save you time and energy in the morning, reduce decision fatigue, and help you develop a personal style that reflects your values.

8. Digital Detox and Technology Boundaries

In today’s hyperconnected world, digital distractions can take a toll on our mental well-being. Embrace intentional minimalism by implementing regular digital detoxes, setting boundaries for technology use, and practicing digital mindfulness. Allocate specific times for checking emails and social media, and be fully present in your offline activities. By reducing digital noise, you can create space for deeper focus, creativity, and meaningful interactions.

9. Nurturing Relationships

Intentional minimalism encourages you to prioritize nurturing and meaningful relationships. Invest time and energy in building connections with loved ones, cultivating deep friendships, and engaging in activities that foster genuine connections. Quality relationships are a vital source of fulfillment and happiness, and intentional minimalism reminds us to cherish and nourish them.

10. Ongoing Evaluation and Adaptation

Intentional minimalism is not a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing journey of self-reflection and adaptation. Regularly evaluate your choices, habits, and possessions to ensure they still align with your values and bring you joy. Embrace the flexibility to refine and adjust your minimalist lifestyle as your needs and priorities evolve.

Intentional minimalism offers a path to mental clarity and personal fulfillment in an increasingly complex world. By consciously simplifying our lives, decluttering our physical and mental spaces, and prioritizing what truly matters, we can achieve a sense of balance, focus, and contentment. Embracing intentional minimalism is a journey that requires commitment and mindfulness, but the rewards are invaluable—a more peaceful mind, enhanced productivity, financial freedom, and deeper connections with ourselves and others.

Incorporate intentional minimalism into your life one step at a time, starting with decluttering your physical space and streamlining your digital life. Cultivate mindfulness, practice gratitude, and prioritize experiences and relationships. Remember, intentional minimalism is not about rigid restrictions or deprivation, but rather about consciously choosing what brings you joy, aligns with your values, and fosters a sense of fulfillment.

Embrace intentional minimalism and discover the transformative power of simplicity in unlocking mental clarity, personal fulfillment, and a more meaningful life.

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By focusing on personal development, we unlock our utmost potential and experience a profound influence on our overall happiness. It enables us to assume control of our lives, make constructive adjustments, and embrace new prospects. Personal growth is pivotal in enhancing our relationships, finding purpose, or bolstering our mental well-being.

Join us on this transformative journey to explore how personal development can enhance well-being.

Below, we’ll share practical strategies, valuable insights, and helpful resources to unlock your capabilities.

1. Enhanced Self-Awareness 

A fundamental aspect of personal development is the cultivation of self-awareness. Self-awareness involves consciously observing and comprehending our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It entails stepping back to reflect on our values, motivations, and ourselves. By nurturing self-awareness, we gain profound insights into our true selves, leading to a greater understanding of our needs, aspirations, and purpose.

Practices like mindfulness, journaling, and self-reflection are potent tools to foster self-awareness. Mindfulness entails being fully present at the moment and observing our thought patterns and feelings without judgment. Journaling provides a safe outlet to express ourselves, gain clarity, and track our growth journey.

Lastly, self-reflection prompts us to evaluate our actions, beliefs, and patterns, empowering us to make conscious choices that align with our authentic selves.

A deeper understanding of ourselves enables us to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and cultivate a profound sense of fulfillment and well-being.

In recent times, there’s been a surge of interest in personal development and the behavioral sciences, making the field of applied behavior quite the buzz. It’s all about using psychological know-how in a practical way to bring about changes in behavior and lifestyle. Now, if this field tickles your fancy and you’re thinking of diving into a career here, it’s smart to arm yourself with some solid education and hands-on experience.

A master’s degree is a great starting point, but getting your feet wet through real-world experience is just as essential. The good news? You can juggle both learning and earning by hopping onto an online master’s in applied behavior analysis. This nifty online program is packed with insights on human behavior and hands you the toolkit you need to make waves in diverse environments.

2. Improved Mental Health 

Personal development plays a vital role in promoting mental well-being. By investing in self-growth, individuals can experience positive changes in their mental well-being. One way personal development improves mental health is through stress management techniques. Learning effective stress management strategies helps individuals cope with and reduce stress levels, leading to better overall mental well-being.

Positive affirmations and gratitude practices are other powerful tools within personal development that enhance mental health. Individuals can shift their mindset towards optimism and build resilience by cultivating positive self-talk and focusing on gratitude. These practices result in improved mood, increased self-esteem and foster a positive outlook on life.

Research and expert insights consistently demonstrate the positive impact of personal development on mental well-being. For example, engaging in activities such as growth workshops, therapy, or self-help books can lead to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, increased self-awareness, and improved emotional well-being.

According to Forbes, studies have shown that personal development practices like gratitude journaling and positive affirmations can improve mental health by shifting our focus toward the positive aspects of life. 

“What holds most people back isn’t the quality of their ideas, but their lack of faith in themselves. You have to live your life as if you are already where you want to be.” – Russell Simmons

3. Increased Self-Confidence 

Personal development has a profound effect on self-confidence. Individuals actively engaging in self-improvement can hone new skills, overcome self-limiting beliefs, and set and achieve goals, all contributing to increased self-confidence. In addition, by focusing on personal growth, individuals learn to embrace their strengths, build resilience, and step outside their comfort zones.

Skill-building is an essential aspect of personal development that boosts self-confidence. As individuals acquire new skills and knowledge, they gain a sense of accomplishment and capability. This newfound expertise empowers them to take on challenges confidently.

4. Better Relationships 

Personal development not only benefits us individually but also significantly impacts our relationships. Through personal growth, we cultivate essential relationship skills such as effective communication, empathy, and emotional intelligence. These skills enable us to build healthy and meaningful connections with others. 

Forbes highlights the importance of active listening, understanding different perspectives, and expressing empathy as critical components of personal development that positively impact relationships. We become better partners, friends, and family members by continuously improving ourselves. We learn to navigate conflicts, establish boundaries, and cultivate deeper connections. 

The positive effects of personal development on relationships are evident in increased trust, mutual respect, and overall relationship satisfaction. When we prioritize our personal growth, we create a ripple effect that extends to the quality of our relationships and enhances our well-being.

5. Lifelong Learning and Growth 

Personal development is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. In a rapidly changing world, embracing unique growth opportunities and continuously acquiring new skills and knowledge is crucial. Forbes emphasizes that personal development encourages us to let go of our comfort zones and explore new challenges. We enhance our adaptability and resilience by seeking learning experiences and acquiring new skills. 

Continuous learning allows us to stay relevant in our personal and professional lives, adapt to changing circumstances, and embrace innovation. It fosters a growth mindset, which empowers us to view failures as potential opportunities for growth and challenges as stepping stones toward success. Embracing personal development opportunities nurtures our intellectual curiosity and expands our horizons. It enables us to unlock our full potential, pursue our passions, and create a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Final Words 

Personal development is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance our well-being and overall quality of life. By investing in ourselves and embracing personal growth, we can experience profound positive changes. We have explored various aspects of personal development, including enhanced self-awareness, improved mental health, increased self-confidence, better relationships, lifelong learning, and growth.

Remember, personal development is a lifelong journey. Embrace it with a willingness to explore new possibilities. Invest in yourself and commit to ongoing growth and self-improvement. Doing so can unlock your full potential and offer a life filled with purpose, joy, and well-being.

Read more personal development blogs from Addicted 2 Success! 

• A List of Affirmations to Use Right Now to Create a More Positive Life
• Unlock The Power Of Emotional Intelligence: Deepen Connections and Win More Clients
• 58 Inspirational Quotes on Victory That Will Motivate You to Win

The post 5 Ways Personal Development Boosts Your Well-Being appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Affirmations help you bring mental images, motivate and keep you focused on accomplishing your goals. They create positive vibes and help manage your time. They reinforce your inner voice. 

They help you take a step closer to your ideal mindset with a positive, right, and strong attitude. They enhance your longevity as you enjoy living for a longer time with optimism.

They keep you happy and help you lead your personal, professional, and social life successfully. They purify your thoughts and inspire you to dream and achieve big. You begin to think that everything is possible in this world. 

Research shows that we get around 50,000 to 60,000 thoughts in a day and most of them are negative. 

Hence, it is essential to convert negative thoughts into positive thoughts through affirmations. Life becomes truly great when we can think positively and contribute constructively to make a difference in the lives of others.

Tips to Acquire Positive Affirmations

“You will be a failure until you impress the subconscious with the conviction you are a success. This is done by making an affirmation which ‘clicks.'” ―Florence Scovel Shinn 

Everything depends on your mind. Your thinking will create magical words that inspire and mesmerize the people around you. Here are some tips to affirm yourself positively: 

• Appreciate yourself. Look at the positive things within yourself. In the morning, think of the good things you will do throughout the day. In the night, think of the good things you have done through the day before you sleep.
• Use sentences such as “I can do it” or. Use the letter ‘I’ to affirm yourself. Tell yourself, “I am full of energy and that gives me joy”. Or “I forgive those who have hurt me”. These sentences bring a lot of change in your thought process and help you to calm down.
• Use present tense in your statements to become optimistic and achieve maximum outcome. That tells you, what you said is your state of mind now. It is not a future goal or a quality of the past.
• Surround yourself with motivational slogans. Take out five minutes to find a motivational quote of your choice every day. 
• To apply affirmations, remove negative thoughts from your mind and replace them with positive thoughts. For example, instead of thinking “This is going to be difficult”, think rather, “There are some challenges here and it will be fun to overcome them.”
• Prepare a few positive affirmations that suit your age, expectations, and passion. Repeat them. They will creep into your subconscious mind and convert your thought process positively. Once the messages are ingrained in your subconscious mind, your behavior will improve automatically.

Wayne Dyer remarked, “My favorite affirmation when I feel stuck or out of sorts is: Whatever I need is already here, and it is all for my highest good. Jot this down and post it conspicuously throughout your home, on the dashboard of your car, at your office, on your microwave oven, and even in front of your toilets!” Above all, look at the door that is open, not the one that is closed. 

“All that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think we become.” ―Buddha

Change Your Mental Vocabulary

James Allen said, “All that you accomplish or fail to accomplish with your life is the direct result of your thoughts.” Whether you want to succeed or fail, it is in your hands as your thoughts will lead to actions. When your thoughts are positive, your actions will be positive. Here are some techniques to convert your thoughts into positive action: Replace “if” with “when,” “should” with “could you,” “hopefully” with “certainly” and “I hope” with “I expect.”  Do not think about what you do not have. Think about what you have. Do not say, “Have a great day!”  but say, “Make it a great day!” Never say, “Do not worry”. Always say, “Have faith”.  Swapping a few words while speaking can convert you into an exceptional achiever.  For instance, swap “but” for “and”; and “have to” for “want to,” and you will find an amazing difference in your thinking process.

Write down your affirmations in a journal and read them before you go to bed and when you wake up. Do it regularly because it helps the affirmations enter into your subconscious mind easily giving you amazing results. 

Here are some examples of affirmations you can customize and adopt: 

1. I exercise every day and I am healthy. 
2. I always learn and grow. 
3. I always see the good in others and appreciate it. 
4. I forgive people and forget unpleasant events. I am compassionate and kind at heart. 
5. I am surrounded by healthy and positive people. 
6. I always get what I want. 
7. I become more and more prosperous every day. 
8. I attract incredible opportunities to increase my earnings and better my life. 
9. I have a continuous abundance of prosperity flowing to me. 
10. I allow all good things to come into my life and I enjoy them.
11. I am an abundant person. 
12. I have a loving family. 
13. I read great books and enjoy sharing my knowledge with the world free of charge.  
14. I am blessed with loyal fans and followers all over the world. 
15. I have an attitude of gratitude. 
16. I am blessed with affectionate and reliable friends.
17. I am happy and successful. 
18. I have a heart to serve others. 
19. I always add value to others and make a difference in the world.
20. I inspire the world.  
21. Life is great!

When you want to grow as a leader, you must create a positive and healthy thought process to build your confidence. It is essential to be equipped with positive affirmations. 

Equipping with positive affirmations would be easy when you adopt the outlined techniques. Follow the tips, tools, and techniques to acquire, equip and apply positive affirmations that would help you reach your goal. 

Read more personal development blogs from Addicted 2 Success! 

• 5 Ways Personal Development Boosts Your Well-Being
• Unlock The Power Of Emotional Intelligence: Deepen Connections and Win More Clients
• 58 Inspirational Quotes on Victory That Will Motivate You to Win

The post A List of Affirmations to Use Right Now to Create a More Positive Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

This is from a Cornell study conducted a few years back.

The “ideal self” is the attributes you would ideally like to possess, such as hopes, goals, aspirations, or wishes. 

It’s the forsaken dreams, romantic interests not pursued, and choosing the “safe” job instead of the adventurous position.

It ties nicely to the #1 regret of the dying, according to Bronnie Ware:

“I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.”

So how do you become the minority? 

How do you become the 24%?

First, we must understand that we have two double whammies to contend with.

1. Our lizard brains

Our deepest human need is to survive.

Our brains are survival machines and nothing more. They’re designed to keep us alive. 

As part of this hard-wiring, we’re also efficiency machines.

Our brains seek the path of least resistance. It’s a primal desire to conserve calories to ensure our survival. 

Anything outside our comfort zone is unknown and, therefore, an “unnecessary’ risk.

So we seek the comfort of not leaping into our unforsaken dreams, the comfort of not being rejected by the romantic interest, the comfort of the “safe” job.

Complacency trumps courage.

“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” – George Bernard Shaw

2. Conditioning

We’re conditioned by family, friends, and society to chase certain things to be happy.

Those things are almost always outside ourselves: 

The right job title, the right amount of money, the right car, the right clothes, etc. 

The most significant trouble with externals is that they do supply happiness in the short term. 

Long-term, they transform into regrets; for example, the parent who worked 80-hour weeks to maintain a house that was too big and missed family and connection time along the way. 

So back to the million-dollar question:

How do we become the 24%?

We reinvent ourselves from a chaser of things to a creator of meaning. 

Your purpose in life isn’t to stare at a spreadsheet all day or out-maneuver John for the corner office so you can chase more things. 

I believe there’s more than one purpose to life and one of them is this:

To find what makes us come alive, commit to its accomplishment, and share it with the world. 

These are the 3 C’s to a meaningful life.

Connect:

We must learn about ourselves, what matters to us, and who we are. We must get clear on who we want to be and want we want our lives to be.

We’ve got to connect with ourselves and find what makes us come alive. 

When we seek what makes us come alive (Life Calling), we connect with ourselves on a profound level. 

We create an opportunity to live in alignment. 

When we live in alignment, we cultivate deeper connections with those around us because we’re connected deeper to ourselves. 

We improve our relationships (with ourselves and others). 

We cultivate self-trust and confidence. 

We give purpose and meaning to our lives.

Create:

When we commit to creating/giving life to our Life Calling, we give ourselves one of the greatest gifts of being alive; we give ourselves a mission. 

A mission cultivates joy, intention, purpose, meaning, self-trust, confidence, and fulfillment. 

A mission gives us focus, direction, and aim. 

We wake up in the morning with reason and purpose. 

We give purpose and meaning to our lives.

Contribute:

When we share our creations, we give back to the world that gave us the ability to create what we created. 

We’re of service to something more significant than ourselves. We bring inspiration into the world and show others what’s possible, which creates more creation. 

This is one of the highest purposes we can serve.  

Just because 76% of people die with the same regret doesn’t mean you will. 

You have, at any time, the opportunity to enter the 24%.

It’s not too late, you’re not too old, you didn’t miss your chance.

Reinvention Reminder: A year from now, you can regret that you didn’t start a year ago or a year from now, you can be in awe at how far you’ve come.

The post 3 Simple Steps to Reinvent Your Extraordinary Life appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

For me, 2023 has really been about getting out of my own way and daring to pursue the life of my dreams. You may feel stuck or like your life is in a holding pattern. However, I want to let you know that you are not stuck and that you are always one decision away from shifting the direction of your life. It’s time for you to awaken to what is possible for your life.

I hope you will take these words to heart and boldly take action in the direction of your dreams. 

1. Make up your mind what you really want

I talk to so many people that are confused about what they really want. How do I know that? They spend all their time focused on what they do not want. It permeates their minds and consumes their conversations. 

Therefore, it is inevitable that they will continue to manifest more of what they do not want. At some point, you have to get crystal clear about what you want in life. This is not an easy task and it will require time and commitment. However, when you operate with clarity you become a magnet for success and prosperity. 

When you are able to focus the mind on a desire you fuel the manifestation of that desire in your life. What do you really want? Clarity is the great connector bridging the gap from hope to manifestation. There is no power on earth that can stop an individual with a made up mind. Whatever the mind can conceive, your moments hold the power to create. 

2. Stop living ruled by your emotions

If you are anything like me, you can find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster. After all, you know what you desire to see manifest in your life. That’s not the problem though. The real problem is the fear, doubt and self-limiting beliefs that constantly stand in the way of your success and your fulfillment. 

You can continue to listen to the lies and live in a narrative of fear, frustration and failure. Or you can make a decision to stop living your life ruled by your emotions. Emotions are a beautiful thing. 

However, if you are not careful your emotions will hold you captive to cycles of bondage. Earlier this year, I made a decision that I was going to go after a really big goal. The moment I made that decision it seems like paralyzing fear and debilitating anxiety tried to take hold of me. 

In addition, it seemed like I found myself in an inner battle between what I knew I needed to do and what doubt and fear was telling me that I should not do. Have you ever been there? At that point, I had to make the decision that I was going to silence the fear, stand in faith and seize the future. As I affirmed the desire, I noticed that the fear and anxiety subsided. 

All of a sudden my emotions were stabilized and possibilities started to consume my heart and mind. The most tragic thing you can do is to become a prisoner to your emotions. Stop ignoring the fear. I want you to feel the fear and continue moving toward your future. 

The only cure for fear is bold faith.

“You must expect great things of yourself before you can do them.” —Michael Jordan

3. You have to get out of your own way

What is holding you back from success and prosperity? Is it really a lack of opportunities? Or is it fear? Is it really a lack of resources? Or is it a lack of resourcefulness? As I made the decision to go after bigger goals this year, I realized that many of the things that I thought were standing in the way of my success were only illusions. 

I then realized that the real barrier to my success and prosperity was the person staring back at me in the mirror. In other words, it was the lies, self-limiting beliefs and internal narrative that I kept entertaining that was standing in the way of breakthrough. 

So I had to make the non-negotiable decision to get out of my own way. How do you get out of your own way? You stop making excuses and you start making adjustments to your life. 

In essence, you stop living in denial and you start doing the deep inner work to become the person that you were born to be. In order to get out of your own way, your will has to align with the life that you want. 

You get out of your own way when you stop waiting and you start willing your desires into manifestation. You get out of your own way by saying yes to destiny and no to every distraction in your life.

4. Be relentless

When I look at the last six months of my life, I can truly say that my life has been anything but ordinary. While I have been pushed to extraordinary lengths, I have pressed my way into new possibilities for my life. Your limits were made to be tested. 

On the other side of fear is an incredible future filled with possibilities and opportunities. What are you waiting on? Your life does not get better by hoping and dreaming. Your life will only get better when you are brave enough to pursue your greatest life. 

You have to be relentless in breaking cycles, interrupting patterns and shattering paradigms that hold you captive to old seasons and old ways of thinking. At some point, you must come to the understanding that you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by going after the life that sets your soul on fire. 

Others may not understand what you are doing or why you are doing it. However, you must remind yourself that it’s your vision, your life and your future. Today, I want to challenge you to stop playing it safe and dare to live a bigger life. 

You owe it to yourself and to your potential to manifest the greatness on the inside of you. The seed of greatness within you is too great to live as a slave to fear. Pursue the life that you were born for! 

The post How to Relentlessly Pursue Your Greatest Life This Year appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Character is made up of many notes. We don’t all have to sing in an identical pitch; that would be impossible, and, frankly, not at all melodic. But in order to sing a leadership song that is rich, resonant, and harmonious, certain notes must be sung by us all. These common qualities of good character add up to strong leaders.

1. Honesty

Do you always speak the truth and behave honorably … even when no one’s looking?  When you fall short (and we all do occasionally), what tools and resources, both internal and external, do you have close at hand to guide you back on track and keep you in check? Can you trust yourself to self-correct?  And how are you training your employees to be the most honorable humans they can possibly be? How has honesty been woven into the fabric of your organizational culture?

2. Grit

Grit is determination and the will to succeed because hard work is, well, hard! You have to get in and do it with no excuses, no pity parties, no turning back just because something is difficult.

When I was 25 years old, my company relocated me to Europe. Arriving at my new flat, I was tired, lonely, hungry, and discombobulated from having to drive from the airport, after a twelve-hour flight, on the “wrong” side of the road … in a stick shift, which was new to me! And then, I locked myself out of the flat! I sat on the street curb, tears in my eyes, thinking, Maybe I’ve made a mistake. Maybe this move just wasn’t right for me. Maybe I’m not up to the task.

But then I forced myself to tap into that “gritty place” deep within me, where lived my self-confidence, resilience, and determination. Somehow, I stood up, wiped away my tears, and found a way into my new flat. And in that moment, I launched my life as a leader.

3. Humility

As you lead and live, remember that it’s not about always being right; it’s about always doing right. Leaders must be sure our employees know that we are aware of our own flaws and foibles. When we bristle at criticisms or take a little too much pleasure in proving someone wrong, we shortchange ourselves, the people we are leading, and the companies we work for. 

In truth, it feels wonderful to openly admit to an  employee, “You were right, and I was wrong. Thank you for teaching me.” It feels even better if you make this healthy admission in front of a group!

4. Openness

Resist the urge to surround yourself only with people who agree with you, who echo what they know you want to hear and are more interested in seeking your approval than expressing their own unique voices and concerns.

And even beyond resisting surrounding ourselves with sycophants, we must also actively seek dissenting opinions and encourage different ideas. Leaders who are comfortable, confident, and intelligent enough to seek opinions different from their own have learned how to move beyond their own interests and egos and stand in a more expansive place.

Be careful, though, because our subconscious bias can trick us into placing more value on the employee who is always agreeable than the one who occasionally (and respectfully) rejects the status quo. The trick is to retrain your brain so that it does not react negatively to pushback or opinions different from your own.

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden

5. Neutrality

Gossip, blaming, and backbiting are both mean-spirited and unbecoming of a leader. Rising above such small-minded activities yourself is noble and necessary—but not sufficient. Leaders must also rise and conquer by canceling the culture that encourages such negativity in the first place, establishing an environment of zero-tolerance. If you see it or hear it happening, call it out. Take a stand. Discipline and/or remove employees who display this detrimental and demoralizing behavior.

6. Boldness

Uncomfortable situations will arise in the workplace that will require your attention, discernment, and involvement. It’s always best to address these issues head-on, not only for the good (and the growth) of your employees, but also to explore and expand your leadership skills.

Starting a new job early in my leadership career, I had an employee I’d been told needed to be terminated immediately. However, I decided that before I took that action, I would assess the situation myself.

In the first meeting I attended with this employee—a big meeting involving numerous managers and the company CEO—she fell asleep. Really asleep! Afterwards, I immediately pulled her aside and respectfully but firmly told her that if she wanted to continue growing in her job and be professionally successful, falling asleep in any meeting would not do! I said that if it happened again—or if it became clear that she was not performing her duties—she would be terminated. 

I urged her to think about what other issues might be at play; perhaps there was something she was missing.

Well, she went to the doctor shortly thereafter and learned that she was severely diabetic, which was causing her extreme fatigue. With that news, she thanked me for being straightforward but respectful, for handling an uncomfortable situation with dignity, compassion, and grace, and for “waking her up”—in more ways than one.

7. Investment in others

For a variety of reasons, managers and leaders are often reticent to give their employees meaningful and continuous feedback. But we need to look at feedback not as a quarterly duty or an annual, paperwork-driven obligation, but as an ongoing investment in our people and a constant part of our organizational culture. 

Without it, how will your team be led and guided? How will they know when to adjust and/ or recalibrate? The manager who doesn’t provide open, honest feedback to every employee, regardless of their protected class or status, is doing that employee and the organization a grave disservice.

8. Bravery

Often the worst experiences produce the most valuable lessons. Knowing what not to do often informs and guides our thinking as we evaluate what we should do.

I think back on my first romantic relationship, when I was a teenager. In retrospect, he was awful: controlling, demanding, jealous, and domineering. But even when the relationship became abusive, I stayed. It took me a while, and an extraordinary amount of courage, to finally walk away from that toxic relationship.

I used to feel embarrassed and disappointed in myself for suffering through the pain and indignity for as long as I did. But nowadays I understand the vital, enduring life lessons I took away from that relationship, lessons I bring into my leadership experience. 

That profoundly negative experience taught me profoundly positive lessons. I learned much about what kindness is by seeing what kindness is not. Courage in adversity has lessons of its own.

Mastering these character notes will help you grow as a leader. You might hit a little dissonance now and then (we’re all human!), but just keep practicing and you will bring harmony to your life and work.

The post Sing a Song of Character: 8 Traits That Build a Strong Character appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

If he approaches it with a negative attitude, the conflict will be aggravated. However, if he approaches it with a positive attitude, the conflict will be resolved easily. Man is responsible for most problems. He often blames God for all his problems, when he alone is responsible for all of them. 

Most of man’s problems are due to his rotten attitude. When a man attacks others negatively and with a bad attitude, he invites problems for himself. Sometimes envy takes over and he breaks his relations with others. 

Ultimately he blames God. Man makes mistakes and makes God the scapegoat for the most part. As long as a man enjoys pleasure, he forgets God; but the moment pressures begin to build up, he recalls God and holds Him accountable for all his problems. 

Man must be grateful to others and to God. 

In addition, most of the time man reacts to problems, instead of acting vis-à-vis them. Man blames individuals for all issues without looking at ideas to resolve them. Man often wants an easy life and quick success and compromises on several things, and finally blames God for the consequences. 

90:10 Principle

When one of my students wanted to share the 90:10 principle with me, I requested him to share it in the presence of other students so that they too could benefit from his knowledge. 

He said that 90 percent of problems can be solved by acting rather than reacting to the situation and that 10 percent of problems were beyond human control. Hence, we should not concern ourselves much with that 10 percent that arises out of external forces and factors; but we need to take a quick look at the 90 percent of problems that can be tackled easily with a proactive attitude and approach. 

Treat every problem as a prospect and every lesson as a path toward your success. 

Reaction versus Response

People often miss the subtle difference between reacting and responding. There is a difference between the two, with the former word sending a negative and the latter a positive message. 

If people know the difference between the two and approach a situation intending to respond rather than react to challenges, I am sure most problems can be averted and conflicts resolved. 

It is essential to respond rather than react and to act rather than react to others. Both responding and acting on issues sound better than reacting to them. By nature, most people react rather than respond to unfavorable situations. 

This proves to be costly later. And most people are aware of this, so it is unfortunate that people still react at the spur of the moment and regret it later. 

Reacting often leaves us in a lurch. However, with time, patience, and practice, you can make responding your primary method of dealing with tricky situations. When faced with problems, people often react rather than act without giving serious and cool thought to it, and this aggravates the problem. 

Sometimes people magnify tiny problems and worry a lot, resulting in more provocative reactions. Certain things in our lives are beyond our control. There is no point in reacting to such situations, and we can avoid doing so. 

People often waste their precious energies by brooding over things over which they have no control. 

Life is in your hands. You have a choice to make—either to react or to respond to a conflict or a tricky situation. It is said that below-average individuals talk about individuals, average individuals talk about issues, and above-average individuals talk about ideas.

“Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.” ― Thomas Jefferson

Everything is present in the human mind and informs how an individual views a scenario and approaches to handle it.

Your life depends on the path you choose and the decisions you make. Life is full of challenges, and man faces problems from the cradle to the grave. Man’s problems end the day he goes to his grave. 

Hence, it is essential to respond rather than react to problems. Doing so makes sense, and makes your life peaceful and pleasant. It also helps you to empathize with others when they have problems of their own.

Several wars have broken out due to the reactive attitude of our rulers. If rulers had only acted with restraint, they could have averted several wars. Ultimately, it was the people who were killed and countries that met with disasters. 

Hence, the reaction is something people should avoid. When people act rather than react, most of their problems are resolved naturally.

To conclude, have a positive, right, and strong attitude and learn to act rather than react to situations. 

Finally, have an attitude of gratitude towards God.

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