#selfimprovement Archives

Discover goal-setting strategies from Einstein, da Vinci, Gandhi, Jobs, and Kahlo.
Whose footsteps will you follow?

Setting and achieving personal goals is a critical aspect of personal growth. But how do we go about it?

Let’s draw inspiration from some great minds, each of whom offers a unique perspective on setting and achieving personal goals.

1. Albert Einstein – The Power of Curiosity and Persistence

Einstein, a theoretical physicist known for developing the theory of relativity, was not particularly successful in his early schooling. However, his insatiable curiosity and persistence led him to become one of the most influential scientists in history.

His approach to goal setting might involve fostering a deep curiosity about the subject matter and persisting through challenges and failures.

To stand in Einstein’s shoes, cultivate a relentless curiosity and don’t let failure deter you from your path.

2. Leonardo da Vinci – Interdisciplinary Learning and Creativity

Leonardo da Vinci, an Italian polymath of the High Renaissance, was known for his unquenchable curiosity and feverishly inventive imagination.

His approach to goal setting might involve a commitment to lifelong learning, exploring a wide range of disciplines, and using creativity to solve problems and achieve goals.

To emulate da Vinci, embrace learning across a wide range of subjects and use your creativity to find unique solutions.

3. Mahatma Gandhi – Patience and Non-violence

Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule, was a strong advocate for patience, peace, and non-violence.

His approach to setting and achieving goals might involve a commitment to peaceful methods, patience, and the belief that slow and steady progress can lead to significant change.

To walk in Gandhi’s footsteps, practice patience and believe in the power of peaceful persistence.

4. Steve Jobs – Vision and Innovation

Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc., was known for his visionary approach and his ability to innovate and think outside the box.

His approach to goal setting might involve having a clear, innovative vision of what you want to achieve and the determination to make it a reality, even if it means going against the grain.

To channel Jobs, hold a clear vision of your goals and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo.

5. Frida Kahlo – Self-expression and Resilience

Frida Kahlo, a renowned Mexican artist, faced numerous health problems throughout her life. Despite her physical condition, she continued to express herself through her art.

Her approach to setting and achieving goals might involve using personal experiences as a source of inspiration, expressing oneself authentically, and demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

To embody Kahlo’s spirit, draw strength from your personal experiences and express yourself authentically in your pursuits.

These historical figures each offer a unique perspective on setting and achieving personal goals. Whether it’s Einstein’s curiosity, da Vinci’s interdisciplinary approach, Gandhi’s patience, Jobs’ vision, or Kahlo’s resilience, there’s a strategy here for everyone.

So, which approach resonates with you? Whose shoes will you choose to walk in as you set and achieve your personal goals? Click To Tweet

The journey of personal growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the first step today.

The Seven Self-Limits

We all have a set of unconscious Self-Limits that restrict what we say and do at work.

They’re intended to help keep us safe. To stop us from doing or saying anything which might make us look stupid, bite off more than we can chew or annoy the people around us. Most of the time they’re helpful, moderating our behaviour so we can get on with others and not over-stretch ourselves.

But at other times, the Self-Limits can really get in the way of what we actually want to achieve. Holding us back, making us try too hard in the wrong ways, and sucking the joy out of what we do get done!

Shame is one of those Self-Limits.

Shame

Shame is when we’re making a judgement or comparison about ourselves that is unhelpful.

Now, not all self-judgements or comparisons are unhelpful – some are useful. For example, if I notice that my failure-rate at a specific task is higher than other people’s failure rates, I can start to look at what might be causing it. And see if I can improve.

Unhelpful self-judgements or comparisons

But unhelpful self-judgements or comparisons are when I compare my self to a standard I haven’t defined, and then regard myself as ‘bad’ or a failure for not having reached that standard.

Instead, I just tell myself:

I’m not good enough

If only I was better

And instead of helping me to progress I might over-compensate. Putting too much effort into the wrong priorities or trying too hard just at the wrong times. And when effort goes in the wrong direction that can paradoxically lead to failure anyway. Shame also tends to rub-off on the people around us in the wrong way. Either our shameful judgements about ourselves mean that we don’t contribute to the team in a positive and helpful way. Or we can start to look at other people the same way – “I’m not good enough – and neither is he!”