Name one thing you would like to change about yourself. Now, consider if your choice is something you can change by replacing harmful habits with healthy habits. Did you say “yes?” Good. By following a few helpful tips, you can positively change your life.
Where Does My Change Begin?
An easy answer to “where does change begin” is that change begins with you. But is the answer that easy? Unfortunately, no. To understand where you can start to make a change in your life, you must acknowledge everything about yourself, including the uncomfortable truths. So, consider how you think about yourself.
Your sense of self incorporates so many aspects of your life. Your childhood, past events, how others see you, and how you see yourself play a significant role in your sense of self. Harmful behaviors, strengths, and weaknesses come together to create your personality. Sometimes your personality and self-image are affected by outside influences. Because of those influences, it’s essential to do a mental inventory.
How Do I Do a Mental Inventory?
Taking a mental inventory is something you can do anywhere. Find a quiet place, sit down, and write down things you like and don’t like about yourself. Separate the things you like about yourself from those you don’t like. Then, look at what you don’t like about yourself. People often lump stuff they’re not good at with things they don’t like about themselves. There is a difference between “not good at” and “don’t like.”
I’m Not Good at It
When you’re not good at something, you can improve your skill level or compensate for a shortcoming with a more substantial skill.
I Don’t Like It
The characteristics you don’t like about yourself may change throughout your life. Ask yourself what behavior you should work on, how you can work on it, or if you want to work on the behavior.
How Can I Improve?
A key to making improvements in your life is to set realistic goals. For example, if you want to address your depression, start by finding a therapist. Once you have made the decision, create small steps towards addressing your depression. A danger of setting unrealistic goals is feeling overwhelmed, lost, or bad about yourself.
A few other ways to replace harmful habits with healthy habits include:
- Push your boundaries: Get out of your comfort zone by trying something new. When you maintain the status quo, it’s easy to fall back into past behaviors. Stretch yourself to find healthy habits that improve your sense of self.
- Change your thinking: A few simple words can change your mindset. The next time you find yourself doubting your ability, challenge yourself to think of five things you like about yourself.
- Build a routine: Set a schedule, whether you commit to exercising throughout the week or cooking dinner. Habits become a part of your routine when you repeat them.
Your sense of self lies in your childhood, relationships, and self-perception. Sometimes though, you may take a mental inventory and decide you need to change your life — the decision to change shows commitment to your well-being. But, what if harmful behaviors or past trauma are an obstacle? Comprehensive mental health treatment such as The Guest House’s programs provide you with the care you need. You can find peace while exploring our 52-acre estate, nestled in the heart of Central Florida. We’re here to help you take the next step. Call us at (855) 483-7800.