How Much Work Have You Really Done on Yourself? Embrace Continuous Self-Growth
Apr 15, 2025
Introduction:
“Only in the darkest depths of the One Mind are we conceived. The truth of self is never found in the light, as light veils the truth, forming only the illusion of self.”
I’ve always been drawn to philosophical teachings and existential themes. Perhaps it’s just how I’m wired: a fascination with the darker topics so many of us dodge. Reflecting on my past, I see I hid from my own truth for a long time—spurred by shame, guilt, and the need to appear “perfect” for my family and, by extension, the world. This made me conformist in many ways.
Eventually, I had a heartfelt conversation with myself and realised the trap I’d constructed by constantly trying to please others. Yet a single steady thread has run through my life: a hunger to explore various philosophies and texts. This quest for knowledge not only broadens the mind but also provides moments of escape—like a peaceful haven where I can reflect away from turbulent emotions.
But do we ever truly do this enough? Sitting quietly to contemplate and toy with ideas, risking potential offence in a world brimming with “cancel culture,” can feel daunting. And so we circle back to the fundamental query:
How much work have you really done on yourself?
Why Personal Work Must Become a Lifestyle
I believe real self-work is about potentiality. Once we stop chasing our higher potential, life starts to feel unmanageable. This is why self-development must be an ongoing lifestyle rather than a one-off fix. When you adopt consistent inner growth as a habit, you avoid relapse into old patterns. If you don’t, you might repeatedly find yourself trapped by the same problems, illusions, or social expectations.
10 Key Strategies for Self-Development
Below are some insights you might consider if you’re keen to bring about meaningful change:
-
Read Widely
There’s a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. Absorb as many perspectives as you can—philosophy, psychology, history, or fiction. Each text can serve as a mirror, helping you see possibilities beyond your current worldview. -
Find a Therapist Who Challenges You
A good therapist shouldn’t just make you feel safe; they should also push you to confront difficult truths. You want an adult self leading your life, not the inner child clamouring for constant validation. -
Heed Defensiveness
If you notice yourself bristling at criticism or shutting down in discussions, it’s a sign there’s work to be done. Embrace that signal rather than resisting it. -
Develop Routines
Consistency, even in small daily habits—like journaling or morning stretches—can anchor you amid life’s chaos and heighten your self-awareness. -
Set and Complete Goals
Whether it’s finishing a course, learning a new skill, or meeting a fitness milestone, seeing goals through fosters discipline and self-belief. -
Practise Discipline
Real change often demands sacrifice, whether that’s limiting screen time or committing to a healthier diet. Discipline nurtures resilience. -
Engage in Physical Activity
From regular walks to yoga, movement supports emotional health. If you’ve been sedentary, start small—your body and mind will thank you. -
Choose How to Emote
Emotions are inevitable; how you express them is your choice. Try to transform anger into calm conversation, or anxiety into constructive planning. -
Healthy Selfishness
Look after your own needs without being callous. By securing your own emotional well-being, you cultivate the capacity to support others more effectively. -
“Be Love”
Strive to embody love in all you do—replacing judgement with empathy, cynicism with compassion. It can act as a transformative force in both your relationships and your inner life.
Conclusion
So, how much work have you done on yourself? The honest answer might be “never enough,” but that’s precisely the point: self-growth isn’t a destination, it’s a path you continue walking. Cultivating awareness, openness, and resilience is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. As you adopt each of the steps above, you’ll likely find that the more you learn, the more you realise there is left to explore.
Vaya Con Dios
Ultimately, life is an ever-evolving journey. By committing to constant self-reflection, challenging old assumptions, and bravely confronting your own shadow, you embark on a path of ongoing transformation—one that enriches not only you but also the world around you.
Need more help
Sometimes we all need a little extra support, and that's okay. If you're feeling stuck, struggling with a relationship, or simply want to make positive changes in your life, I’m here to walk that journey with you. The most meaningful step for you is to reach out and try a free session to see if we can resolve this.
Get life strategies
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates.
Don't worry, your information will not be shared.
I hate SPAM. I will never sell your information, for any reason.