Written by: Lydia on THURSDAY, OCT 12, 2023
Welcome to my blog, where I explore the fascinating journey of self-improvement. You might be wondering what inspired me to write this blog. The truth is, it’s a topic very close to my heart, and I’m sure many of you can relate.
I’ve had the privilege of working with countless students who have, at some point, questioned their progress and faced the all-too-familiar feeling of self-doubt. I’ve been in your shoes too, navigating the twists and turns of self-improvement and recognizing the challenges it can bring.
This blog is my way of sharing insights and tips that have not only helped me but have also resonated with those I’ve had the honor of teaching and learning from. It’s about celebrating the beauty of incremental growth and the joy of self-improvement. It’s about challenging that inner skeptic to acknowledge the reality of our progress.
In the following post, I’ll delve into these insights and share how you, too, can embrace the art of recognizing the hidden progress within. So, without further ado, let’s embark on this journey together and explore the path to self-improvement.
The Art of Noticing: Unveiling the Hidden Progress Within
Have you ever embarked on a journey of self-improvement, put in the hours of practice and hard work, and still felt like you were stuck in a never-ending loop of mediocrity? Or perhaps someone showered you with praise, and your inner skeptic whispered, “Are they just being polite?” You’re not alone. The art of noticing improvement in ourselves can be as elusive as the disappearing sock in the laundry.
1.The Mirror Deception:
The mirror can be our harshest critic. You practice your dance moves daily, but the mirror reveals the same reflection. You wonder, “Am I just dancing in circles?” The truth is, change can be subtle, like the slowly shifting seasons. Instead of gazing in the mirror, document your progress. You’ll be amazed at the journey you’ve undertaken.
2.Accepting Compliments with Grace:
Picture this: a friend exclaims, “You’ve improved so much!” Your knee-jerk response? “Oh, it’s just practice.” Stop right there. Next time, when a friend generously compliments your progress, embrace it with gratitude. They’re not just ‘being nice’ – they genuinely see your growth.
3.Embrace Teacher’s Encouragement:
Now, let’s talk about those encouraging teachers. You might think, “They’re just keeping me motivated.” While motivation is part of their job, teachers are also truth-tellers. They spot your journey, acknowledge your growth, and guide you towards the stars. When a teacher compliments you, take it as a seal of accomplishment.
4.The Journey Journal:
Want to notice your progress? Keep a journal. Note your practice hours, your reflections, your goals, and your accomplishments. Soon, you’ll witness the story of your growth unfold before your eyes. That mirror you doubted will become a friend showing your evolution.
5.Time-Lapse Video:
If you’re in the arts or sports, create time-lapse videos. The progress becomes evident as you compare yourself side by side. It’s like watching a flower bloom in fast-forward. Your evolution isn’t fictional; it’s right there, like a hidden treasure.
6.Goal Tracking:
In your quest for improvement, set tangible goals. When you reach a goal you’ve set, the satisfaction is undeniable. You’ve crossed a milestone; the climb isn’t in vain.
7.Feedback as a Mirror:
Feedback is your mirror of truth. Sometimes it’s harsh, sometimes it’s sugar-coated, but it’s always insightful. If someone offers constructive criticism, don’t just shrug it off. Embrace it as a nugget of progress. Improvements thrive in the garden of critique.
Our journey of self-improvement is an intricate tapestry, woven from practice, feedback, and the power to notice the subtle changes in ourselves. It’s not about achieving perfection overnight but relishing the beauty of incremental growth. The art of noticing your improvement isn’t an easy one, but it’s a path filled with revelations. So, go ahead, take that compliment to heart, and let your inner skeptic know that progress isn’t a myth—it’s your reality.
Closing Note:
Challenge your inner critic to accept the fact that improvement is real, progress is evident, and success is within your grasp. The next time someone compliments your growth, allow yourself to bask in the joy of your journey, knowing that you’re well on the path to self-improvement.
