There’s always space for improvement, but it can quickly become cluttered with self-improve-ment books. If you’re on a path to self-improvement but don’t feel like sifting through hundreds of pages of self-improvement methods, try these 10 and watch yourself grow.
1. Try something you might not like: Whether it’s watching a football game or reading the “Twilight” saga, trying something you think you’ll hate will expand your views and might surprise you. It will help you understand and empathize with the people who enjoy those things. Besides, if you end up not liking it you will at least have reasons why.
2. Learn to play an instrument: Ladies dig guys who play instruments. But knowing the difference between A major and A minor can have other personal benefits. Playing an instrument is rewarding because it is one of the hardest things you will ever do. But once you get it down and play the chorus of your favorite song, you’ll be proud not only because you’re playing music but because it was hard and you stuck with it.
3. Learn another language: English may be the international language, but there are other languages out there. Learning a second, or even a third language, can set you apart from many others. You don’t have to be fluent, but learn enough to get around in a foreign city.
4. Read a book: Not online. Not an audio book. Take the time to open a hard copy, more-than-100-page book. There is something out there for everybody, and finding the right fit will make you smarter.
5. Plan time for yourself: Meditate, pray, listen to your favorite band — it doesn’t matter what you do. But it is important to take time out each week to be alone and get to know yourself. It will help you relax when school gets crazy, and you will know who you truly are.
6. Travel your neighborhood: Most people want to travel the world and visit Spain, England, Germany, Israel, etc. But before you do all of that, it is important to know where you live. Grab a camera, find a special place around your neighborhood and be a tourist.
7. Plant a tree: Watch something you planted grow into something beautiful. You will learn to care for something, while helping the environment. It’s a win-win.
8. Mentor someone: Teach your brother to ride a bike or tutor someone in your class. It will help that person and will reinforce that knowledge in you.
9. Volunteer: It doesn’t have to be Thanksgiving or Christmas to help the less fortunate. Work at a food shelter or clean up a street. It will be a rewarding experience, and you will help your community.
10. Step outside yourself for a week: Get a makeover. Change your style, your attitude and your points of view on pressing issues. You’ll become more understanding of others, and you’ll appreciate the way you are more. You might even keep some of the changes and grow as a person.
Whether you try one or all 10, you will see yourself change and improve, and you will gain experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.
If you try any of these tips, send a picture to nsunews@nova.edu and you could be featured in an upcoming issue or on our Web site.
