Before we set off there are two more things which will help you on the journey.
Within the inner fold of the temporal lobe there is a very old part of the cortex called the hippocampus, which manages your long-term memory. Once something is in your long-term memory you will have access to it throughout your life.
The trick is finding a way to transfer your learning from your short-term to your long-term memory. Keeping a log book is very effective in this respect since the very act of writing something down reinforces it in your memory. Use it to record time/ dates, thoughts, reflections, learning points, choices, decisions, goals, strategies for actions, actions taken, failures, learning points and results. More importantly, use your log book to record your successes, your achievements and the steps you have completed. This will become an invaluable tool to keep your motivation high. Then, when you come across one of those slump days, you can look back and remember how far you have come and feel inspired to keep going.
‘The palest ink is better than the best memory.’ Confucius |
Personal development takes time and effort and, as we have said before, most people treat their growth as the elephant in the room – they know that it’s very important but somehow it’s ignored. Life always demands that you deal with the ants (the small things) rather than the elephant. Of course dealing with the ants gives you a better headcount but the recompense is, in the long term, very disappointing. So, as part of your time management, make sure you book time out for your personal development activities. In addition, a little and often is better than huge and infrequent. Little and often soon becomes part of your lifestyle and will not feel like an obligation. Working on yourself for yourself should be enjoyable, fun and rewarding.
Deaf and blind from 19 months, Helen Keller became a global phenomenon. Not only was she a symbol of determination, discipline and courage, she was an extraordinary lesson in what can be achieved against all the odds. She was the first person with her limiting condition to gain an arts degree, but more than that she went on to become an author, political activist and lecturer, who devoted her life to helping others. If ever you feel that life has dealt you a bad hand read her story and get things into proportion.
As well as being a remarkable woman, Helen had the distinct advantage of having someone who wholeheartedly supported her. This was her inspirational tutor, Anne Sullivan. It was because of Anne’s unfailing belief in her that Helen reached the heights she did.
On your own journey of self-development you may find it useful to find a friend who would like to take the journey with you. You’ll find it more fun, more enlightening and more enduring with a companion.
‘Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.’ Helen Keller, author and activist |
And remember PPO: Persistence Pays Off.