SELF IMPROVEMENT
'Self-improvement' is a concept that is not so easily understood by common people. They do understand the literal meaning, but they really never think seriously about improving themselves. In fact, the first step on the ladder of self-improvement is to realise the need for improvement; and this, of course, is a realization that demands a good deal of emotional as well as intellectual clarity and strength.
It is difficult to confine the meaning of the term 'improvement'. It can be there in any walk of life. Right from one's own appearance, one can have an improvement in life-style, attitudes and even in intellectual level. So, let’s take the term in its wider meaning. What does the term actually mean? It means change, for sure. But can every change be called 'improvement'? Not at all. A change can be called an 'improvement' only when it is positive. If a graph showing one's health goes down, it is also a change. But we don't call it improvement. Thus, the term inevitably takes with it a sense of positivity and this positivity is the key to all improvements.
How can we improve ourselves? On this they arrange numberless seminars and lectures, and people take part in them in such a large number that can surprise anybody. But one who is determined to improve must keep in mind that unless and until it becomes a two-way process, such seminars and lectures will turn only into a useless activity. Only the conviction for improvement is not enough. It should accelerate the desire to achieve the goal in the way that one must learn to force herself, to stretch herself. We must learn that to improve is all about going against the habits that are once set. The keener one's desire to improve is, the more forcefully she will be able to drive away the old things. The keenness of desire will help in becoming even rude to the old self, and this will lead to create a new self. One should view herself more and more objectively in order to have a better self. In this way, only 'wish' to improve is not sufficient. It should turn into a strong will. Then only some seminar or lecture can help one.
Conviction and will-power, if accompanied by organized efforts, result into a great success. Methodical efforts should be made in order to achieve fast and exact results. For example, a lady has some problem with her memory. Her long time memory is good; she never forgets her own residential address. But she often forgets the things that are there in her short time memory. From the market, she always rings up at home to ask her husband for what she had gone there. Tired and determined to change herself, she starts listing down the things to do and keeping a diary of it. This works wonderfully and gradually she overcomes her weakness. Now she is more organized, happier, and works more efficiently and effectively. This example indicates how methodical efforts help a lot in improving one's self. The only thing needed here is a highly analytical approach to one's problem and its possible solutions.
Added to all the things we have discussed, to be aware of the current concerns of the world around us is also of equal importance, if we want to walk with the world. Comparison is the base of improvement, and when we look at the world around us, we compare ourselves with it. This motivates us for improving ourselves.One who succeeds in self-improvement gains a great self-confidence. To hold and mould one's own self is not an easy task as we already discussed. It requires a great deal of understanding, self-discipline, patience, analytical power and practical point of view. It is well said: 'One who wins the self, wins the world'. In order to be successful and happy in this world, let’s start from the self.
NEHA JOSHI
posted by TARUN PATEL @ 12:27 AM
0 comments
