Oftentimes, people assume success and achievement will give them the sense of fulfilment and joy that they so crave for. But this isn’t so. Of course, achievement gives joy, but such happiness is only for a short time. The key to sustainable happiness is continuous self-improvement.

Regardless of how busy your schedule may be, it is very important you set out some time to focus on the achievement of your goals. Self-improvement is a lifelong process, it starts at birth and continues throughout life, and it is the key to a happiness that is lasting.

Below are nine little ways to focus on your own self-improvement:

1. Focus on yourself:

The first step towards self-improvement is, to begin with oneself. You need to sit and ask yourself; who is the person that I want to be? When I am old and grey, and I look back at my life, what do I wish to see in it?

After answering this questions, then begin to live life towards that direction. One of the periods people experience regret most is at old age, where they brood over chances missed and opportunities ignored. In order not to become that grumpy old fellow, you need to start working on that person you wish to be.

2. Focus on areas that need improvement:

Perhaps you have asked yourself what you want to become and can’t find any practical answers, which leaves you feeling goal-less. No need to worry. Instead, take a cue from almost everyone else on the planet and focus your efforts towards improving in these five key areas; relationship, health, career, finance, and spirituality.

Improving in these listed areas will give you an overall feeling of wellness and lasting happiness.

3. Love yourself:

This may sound harsh but it is the plain truth. Regardless of how hard you work on yourself, you would never be perfect; no one is perfect. The earlier you realise this the better for your peace of mind. Perfectionist tends to live the most unhappy lives. Why? They want to realise something that is unrealisable.

Stop over-flogging yourself for the things you have done wrong and the things that are not working in your life, rather bask in the euphoria of things that are right and things that have gone well. We are all humans, we all have our good sides and our flaws. Focusing on only the aspects that are not working is doing yourself a great disfavour.

4. Exercise more:

One of the most important tips for self-improvement is taking proper care of oneself. Learn to exercise more. Exercise stimulate the release of a type of hormone called endorphins, they make people feel good.

Also, exercise allows you to be fit, healthy and trimmer, thereby improving your self-esteem. Generally, you need to take good care of yourself, this would include eating and resting right, cutting down on alcohol and junk food, drinking more water. All of these contributes towards a healthier version of yourself.

5. Have a clear out:

One of the tips towards self-improvement and having a fresh start is having a clear out. This helps you get rid of baggage. These baggage have a way of holding us down and making us feel heavier. Plus, some of them are objects of pain or regret, reminding us of some of our past failures or flaws.

In order to have a fresh, healthier start, spare a few hours of your day clearing out baggage and other things that you don’t need. In the end, you will feel lighter and more determined to achieve your goal.

6. Surround yourself with people you love:

The reason behind most people depressive mood and bad behaviour are the people who surround them. This explains why inpatient rehab facilities are often the most effective. They help to shield the addict away from environmental stimuli that contribute or may lead to a relapse.

A practical tip towards self-improvement is surrounding yourself with people who are important to you and that you love. And also, getting rid of those who make you behave badly or do not contribute positively to your life. In order to have a positive life, surround yourself with positivity. Spend time with family and friends who make you smile and keep you happy.

7. Learn something new each day:

Education has a surprising way of rejuvenating people and helping them towards improved health and longevity. Another practical step towards self-improvement is learning or practicing something new each day. You can read a book, register for an online course or learn a new skill. Learning something new gives a feeling of satisfaction.

8. Believe in yourself:

Self-improvement does not come easy, it takes time and effort. You need to have absolute belief in yourself and be determined to make changes happen in your life. No matter what it is in your life that you don’t like, you can make a change. Start by making positive daily small changes in your life. This could relate to your job, career, or health. Whatever this may be, be determined to make a positive change.

9. Get a role model:

A role model is important for self-love and self-improvement. By having a role model; someone you look up to or someone you wish to be like, you have gotten for yourself a yardstick to evaluate your actions. By understanding the way they think, or how they have dealt with issues, it can give you a proper guide on how to proceed in life.

Umair Khan