Every new year is a chance to start fresh, turn a new page, and make lasting changes. Self-improvement is one of those areas where people can always find room for improvement. However, this time, when we’re slowly approaching 2024, you can pursue self-improvement by setting realistic and easily attainable goals.
Get high on life.
The first self-improvement goal is to rely on life and its adventures to give you that dopamine spike. Substance abuse is on the rise as it’s usually a quick fix. Instead, 2024 can be all about doing enjoyable things that make you feel great about yourself, your life and your pursuits.
Challenge your inner critic
Being so judgmental is so 2023, don’t you think? We’ve all been too harsh on ourselves, especially when we fail to do something or fail at a goal. But, this time around the sun, we can start challenging our inner critic and changing our thought patterns. Next time you want to be harsh on yourself, just change your thoughts and say – next time, you’ll do better, I believe in you.
Talk to someone
If you truly want to improve your mental health, 2024 is the year you start talking to someone. There should be no shame in visiting a psychotherapist. You probably already have a friend or two who swears by it as it profoundly affects people’s lives. It’s like a warm hug in the form of a conversation, where you’ll get an opportunity to face yourself, your beliefs, patterns and any problems, but in a kind and loving way.
Improve your self-esteem
Self-esteem is fragile, especially today when we so easily compare our lives against a highlights reel of others on social media. It can affect how we see ourselves, especially if we’ve been on the journey of weight loss or accepting our body image. Professionals like those at Free Your Body centre can assist you with your self-esteem and body image issues through a range of approaches and philosophies. Become the master of your self-esteem in 2024 and approach every challenge with a better mindset.
Embrace your sexuality
When we’re not in touch with our sexuality, we’re not in touch with ourselves. Sexuality is an important part of our being, and there are many health issues associated with not being able to be yourself. Maybe 2024 is the year when you’ll finally embrace that you are bisexual or gay or anywhere else on the spectrum. Embracing our sexuality and cultivating a positive, healthy attitude toward it can contribute significantly to our overall sense of fulfilment and well-being.
Learn the art of saying no
Setting better boundaries can be a source of immense joy if you finally learn to say no. We often agree to things we don’t want to do and prioritise activities that aren’t as important to us because we don’t know how to decline properly. Those who truly love you won’t have a problem with your boundary setting. This can also be a great challenge for people you spend time with because those who don’t respect your boundaries will easily show it. This can also be a good signal for you to reevaluate some of the relationships in your life.
Embrace creativity
Creative outlets are important for our growth as they spark joy, reduce stress and motivate us to pursue new things. We often get stuck in a rut, so intentionally choosing to do something creative without your smartphone in sight can be a gateway to self-discovery and expression.
Unplug from the digital noise
Going off the grid once a week can be just what you need to get in touch with yourself and your needs and pursue things that spark joy and personal growth. The time we spend on our phones daily, can be cut in half, but only if we decide to change our phone addiction with a rewarding activity. Go on digital detoxes regularly throughout 2024 to better enjoy the world around you.
Seize control of your time
The most common reason why people fail with their goals is because they lack the time. But it’s not the lack of time that is to blame, it’s how we manage the time we’re given in a day. It all boils down to time management skills, so if you want to succeed in everything we’ve mentioned prior, you need to learn how. Seize control of your time by implementing useful strategies like time blocking, the Pomodoro technique or simple yet effective to-do lists.
Even though self-improvement should be an ongoing pursuit, you can focus on these nine goals and see how they shape and improve your life. Embrace this journey and celebrate every milestone, whether big or small.
The Queerness 