How to reach your ideal self

Becoming the best version of yourself means getting back to your quintessential self. As straightforward as that sounds, it’s anything but: Authentic self-discovery takes courage and tenacity. To approach your essential self, you must turn away from distracting false beliefs that cloud or distort your self-perception. When we only do things to satisfy others, we neglect our own interests and passions. Instead of comparing yourself and saying yes to others, what if you focused on being the best version of yourself? It’s an ongoing journey.

Photo: Zen

Consider the traits you love most about yourself and traits that others love about you. This can be difficult for those of us who tend to be hard on ourselves. One of the most popular ways to grow is by surrounding yourself with good people. You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with. One of the most important parts of becoming the best version of yourself is to love yourself. Habits and traits can be deeply rooted in our personality, and it can be challenging to change the way we think, act, or behave. Give yourself time and be proud of the changes you do make. If you tend to be hard on yourself, spend a few minutes every day to write down three things you did that you’re proud of.

Photo: Zen

If you put 100% of your effort into being more kind, patient, generous, courageous, disciplined, and humble. This is your best self. First, think about the best people you know. Not the happiest or most successful, though they may be happy and successful. But the best people. What do they have in common? Are they courageous or cowardly? Patient or impatient? Humble or prideful? Selfish or generous? Are they strong leaders who value hard work, or do they get by with the least amount of effort possible? Write down the characteristics they have in common. Now think about your best self. Close your eyes and try to imagine that person. Not who you want to be, but the best person you are capable of being if you put 100 percent of your effort into being more kind, patient, generous, courageous, disciplined, and humble. This is your best self. Success is this: becoming the best-version-of-yourself.