5-minute read
No matter the occasion, some of us are all too eager to shop for that much-raved-about gift for someone else. Others opt for a handmade gift driven by the idea that “the best things in life are free” – or a gentle nudge from our wallet. The most-successful – ahem, over-achieving – of us listen to our potential recipients and put a great deal of thought into the item we’ll give.
Regardless, we’re eager for their happiness and seek their approval. Although we may have go-to gifts, we seek the joy in their surprise and thankfulness.
But when did you last truly treat invest in yourself?
Do we extend the same courtesy – happiness, approval, surprise – to ourselves? Before you nod eagerly, recalling those new shoes, purses, gadgets, cars, pieces of furniture, appliances, or trips you’ve treated yourself to, pause. When was the last time you invested in – not just splurged on – something that supports your growth, your aspirations, and your goals?
Investing in yourself means owning that you are responsible for creating opportunities.
Have you raised your hand for that project, or thrown your name in the hat for that promotion? Did you speak up in that meeting? When are you exiting that relationship that no longer serves you? Do you hover on sending that resignation email? Ask yourself if you’re willing, truly, to make the same intentional investments in ourselves as we do in others.
Reflect – and discover – what you really want.
It may be time to take a step back. Ask yourself: what do I want? Let the question be broad – because you are. Consider where you want to go at work. Reflect on what you hope for at home. Be specific. Name those things.
To truly understand what drives you, consider investing in tools that provide deeper insights about yourself. The Birkman Method, for instance, offers a comprehensive view of your personality – highlighting your strengths and your typical behaviors under stress. It’s helpful to know what you look like, both at your best and worst.
Gaining clarity can be transformative. It can equip you with the knowledge to pursue what you really want.
What will you need to reach your goals? Consider the people, the systems or tools, the skills necessary for the journey. Then name the tools that will enable you to get there. Who are the people? What tools can help? Don't let FOMO get the best of you. If you haven’t invested in a Birkman report, consider it. If it has collected dust, pull it out. The time is now. Open the door and step into a clearer understanding of who you are and where you want to go.
This is clarity, my friend. It’s specific. It’s actionable, attainable, progress, and it’s necessary. It is truly investing in ourselves.
You cannot afford to not to invest in yourself.
If you’re not worthy of investment, who is? What would have to change to deserve that investment? When putting time, energy, and funds into your own growth, you’re simply taking control of your destiny away from others.
Remember that your purpose-set path will make you ready for the opportunities you align yourself for.
If you've been passed over for that role or assignment or if you’ve been told “not yet,” what are you doing to ensure they can’t overlook you next time? Maybe you are – and enjoy being – the one who saves the day, our behind-the-scenes hero. I bet it’s someone else’s symbol lit up in the sky, though. If you feel invisible, it’s time to change that.
Be like a kid – with big kid confidence and zero reluctance.
Imagine yourself as a kid, over at some relative’s house for a holiday meal. You’re seated at the kids' table while the grown-ups discuss boring grown-up things, but you know you belong at the adults’ table. You’re nearly ready to join and eager to contribute.
What is keeping you? Don’t wait for an invitation. Offer to fetch something from the kitchen, volunteer to change the channel, or speak up and add to the next story. Give yourself an invitation. Channel that fearless, ambitious, and resilient child who stops at nothing to achieve what they want.
But how can you find that confidence?
Embrace the boldness you had as a fearless kid and commit to giving yourself gifts that propel you toward your dreams. Let acts of courage and care guide you.
- At work, channel your inner kid confidence by asking for what you want – without the fear of judgment you gained as an adult. Whether it’s a leadership role you’ve been eyeing, or a compelling project you want to lead, step forward. Speak up about those ideas in meetings, propose innovations, or volunteer for challenging assignments. Like that kid who confidently claims their spot at the adult table, claim your space in professional settings where your voice deserves to be heard.
- At home, don’t wait for the perfect, ideal moment. Start something fulfilling today. Start that garden project you’ve pondered, redecorate a room to reflect your current aesthetic, or initiate that game night to deepen family bonds. Allow yourself the same joy and curiosity in discovering new hobbies or revisiting old passions.
- Embrace self-care as something critical to achieving your other goals. As a kid, you knew the importance of play. Incorporate it into your routine with activities that rejuvenate you. Whether it’s scheduling regular spa days, taking long walks, or dedicating an evening to read your favorite books, these moments of self-care are your way of nurturing your inner self, keeping you energized and focused on your ambitions.
Give yourself the gifts that matter.
Give yourself the gift of progress. Wrap trial and error or vulnerability. Put a bow on learning from failure, perseverance, or believing in yourself. These are the gifts that can truly transform your future. They’ll provide both immediate joy and long-term fulfillment.
As a gift to help you along your journey, we're offering free access to some great content. This guide, 5 Steps to Breakthrough Mental Barriers, is designed to help you identify and overcome the mental obstacles that may be holding you back from fully investing in yourself.
Join us.
Give the gift of your insight.
We'd love to hear from you! What’s one gift you’re planning to give yourself this year that will help move you closer to your goals? Share in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to invest in our growth.
Responses