22 Jan Life: Take it personally!
The way I see it, if you are here, you have the opportunity to experience everything that life has
to offer, you may as well be mindful of it and do it on purpose. I do this by taking life personally.
First and foremost, I want to offer some context: I do not mean taking it personally in such a way
that you feel like life is happening to you. For example, when things don’t go the way you want
and you react with disappointment, anger, shame, etc… That’s taking it personally in a
disempowered way. I mean: Take it personally because life is happening for you. Trust that
whatever happens, whichever path you take, it is meant for you.
In my last article I referenced Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the journey towards
Self-Actualization: the desire to become the most one can be. I wrote about the importance of
Acceptance throughout that process. How does one achieve Acceptance? Personal
Development.
Personal development or self improvement consists of activities that develop a person’s
capabilities and potential, build human capital, facilitate employability, and enhance quality of life
and the realization of dreams and aspirations. (Wikipedia)
Whether you aspire to become the most you can be or you are simply trying to get through each
day with your most basic needs taken care of – personal development is necessary. The fact is:
As a living human being you are going to develop, one way or another. You can choose to do so
passively or you can choose to be engaged in that process. I believe the more mindfulness you
bring to personal development to more success you will have at manifesting your desires,
whatever they may be. That’s personal.
My approach to personal development covers four areas: Physical, Mental, Emotional and
Spiritual. Each area is complex, with many components and factors to consider. When there’s a
goal you are working towards or something you wish to manifest – it serves you to get personal.
Be introspective and reflect on which area needs attention. Doing the work to improve all four
areas will move you forward in a fulfilling and meaningful way.
A great way to level up on self-acceptance is to get clear about what physical, mental, emotional
and spiritual wellness means to you personally and then align your actions with the values you
identify. Living in alignment with your values is a major self-acceptance boost!
More on values in the next article.
Veronica Weston
Personal Development Coach