A general rule of thumb, we want to be the best versions of ourselves. Feeling rested, healthy, and enlightened are all things we pine after. We aim to be successful human beings, capable of achievement in our careers and fulfilled personal lives.

It appears the content we consume online and from those around us boasts of wellness habits, self-improvement, personal growth, promotions, relationships, and reaching life milestones. It’s wonderful to see but, it’s exhausting, right?

If you’re reading this article, then you probably have an interest in self-development. You may have read a life coaching book, completed a few online courses, or perhaps you’ve even got a list of goals. Changing one’s self for the better is compulsive and seemingly brave. But when do you draw the line? There is never a clear end to self-improvement and it’s a constant pursuit. So, when is the constant evaluation of where you’re at in life, just too much? For some a deep-rooted sense of guilt sets. Are you feeling tired of the pressure of being the best version of yourself?

Here’s how you know the pursuit of self-improvement may be getting the better of you:

• • You don’t appreciate yourself
  • You’re always looking for something to fix
  • You think others are always happier than you are
  • You’re scared of failure

Ticking a few of these boxes? Here’s how we approach self-development at the Love the Idea Academy.

Embrace a Curious Mind

Marie Curie said, “Be less curious about people and more curious about ideas.”

As soon as you stop comparing which step of the ladder you’re on compared to others, your mind will have the space to dwell on things that you’re curious about. This in turn makes you an enriched person, always in the pursuit of knowledge, with a deep appreciation for the life you’re living now, and not later down the road.

Bite-Size Learning to Suit You

The most precious asset is your mind. Overloading it is no good, and neither is under-stimulating it. A lifelong pursuit of learning is nothing short of joy. But this should be in bite-size chunks. Manageable courses to fit in with you, designed to enhance rather than overwhelm. Check out the Love the Idea Academy for all our latest courses.

Be Realistic About Your Goals

Dreaming big is great but we think it feels best when goals are met. Be realistic about what you can achieve given your lifestyle and commitments.

Foster Genuine Interest

So work wants to send you on a course that doesn’t float your boat? Say something! You will reap the rewards, professionally and personally when you apply yourself to a subject that genuinely interests you.

All in all, self-development is a gift and something well and truly worth pursuing, but certainly not to the detriment of your sense of self-worth. Keeping your head screwed on and becoming genuinely curious will give you the best foundations.