Ever pondered the profound saying, ‘Your identity is shaped by your thoughts’? While this wisdom carries some truth, my years in therapy have illuminated a more nuanced reality. In countless sessions, individuals have shared a common sentiment:

“I know I’m capable of great things, but why am I not doing them!?”

Some express this frustration with fiery passion, while others carry it in their eyes—a sadness born from a dwindling hope in themselves.

Yes, our thoughts shape us, but to claim that we are solely defined by them oversimplifies the intricate dance of our minds. Consider the unspoken, unkind thoughts we choose not to act upon. At times, dark musings cross our minds, yet we suppress them.

Moving beyond thoughts, words become another potent force in our lives. We’re taught to guard our mouths because we are what we say, but blind adherence to this wisdom can keep some trapped. Despite fervent affirmations, some find their lives lack the substantial progress they hoped for.

If this resonates with you, here’s a friendly therapist tip:

START DOING WHATEVER IT IS YOU’VE BEEN MEANING TO DO.

Whether it’s 

• Writing a book
• Learning to cook
• Prepping for a managerial position
• Hitting the gym
• Practicing art therapy
• Tidying up
• Organizing  
• Reigniting a relationship

Big or small task, the key is ACTION. Real transformation in your life will only happen when you take that first step.

Now, let me guide you through two crucial tips that will help you move beyond mere declarations and embark on a journey of personal transformation—one that will leave others marveling at your progress.

Tip 1: Start NOW

It doesn’t matter how busy you are or how significant the task at hand is—if you’re reading this, you have time for the first step.

Everything around us exists because someone took the first step. They practically laid the first brick…wrote the inaugural line of code… sewed the very first stitch. If they had kept affirming “I’m the best designer in the world” or “I will be the architect behind the tallest building in the world,” we wouldn’t be witnessing their premium designs.

Greatness emerges after a series of mistakes, flops, and even disasters. It’s while people are busy at work that they discover better and quicker ways to do things. Most of the time, your first attempt at something will suck. But guess what? Now you’ve gained experience. You’ve freed your mind from constantly thinking, rethinking, and overthinking the entire thing.

Do you really want to unlock a higher version of yourself? 

Do you want to 

• Reach the next level in your career?
• Double your income in the next 6 months?
• Become a better communicator?
• Love better and stronger?
• Do better as a parent?
• Showcase your talent to more people?

If you honestly answered ‘Yes’ to any of that, then I challenge you to take the first step NOW. Not early tomorrow morning or on Saturday when you’re off from work.

Your beginning DOESN’T have to be something grand. 

It could be taking 30 minutes right now to jot down your project plans (simply scribble them as they pop into your head). It could mean creating a 2-hour block in your calendar where you will write your first book’s introduction. It could also mean booking an appointment with the doctor, the therapist, the lawyer, or your desired business partner. 

Write that email now and send it. Pick that training outfit online and hit ‘checkout’. Find out the merchandise’s buying price already so that you finally answer the question “What’s my expected profit?”. Whatever it is that your mind has been holding onto as the barrier between you and the dream, do it today, right now.

Tip 2: Consistently Level Up

Once you start taking action, I encourage you to focus on consistency. It’s simpler than you think. Many people struggle to discipline themselves to continue working on their plans or personal development. Let me share a few key practices to enhance your consistency:

Don’t Stretch Yourself Too Thin

By now, you know yourself. You are aware of your limits. Avoid committing to too much, too soon. Working for 30 minutes a day on your business plan is more effective than dreading two hours a day. Set yourself free to do less. It may feel like you’re not exploring your full potential, but wait for the feeling of victory after achieving exactly what you set out to do.

Avoid Open-Ended Goals

Your mind prioritizes tasks that have a limited time frame. Instead of saying, “I need to find someone to help me get past these feelings of anxiety,” say, “Before the end of the day today, I will find someone to help me deal with this anxiety.” Your mind will spring into action, actively seeking help before the day ends.

Be Specific With Your Plans

Avoid vague goals like “I will keep fit this month.” Instead, set precise goals. For instance, say, “To achieve my fitness goals this month, I will hit the gym twice a week, every week.”

Consistency and specificity in your actions and goals will significantly contribute to your personal transformation journey.

Tip 3: Plan Your Reward

Bonus Tip: Everyone performs better when they have an incentive to look forward to.

If you want to increase your chances of finding success with your self-development endeavors, consider making plans to reward yourself for predefined milestones. Setting up a reward system can significantly boost your motivation and commitment to your goals.

For instance, you could decide to treat yourself to a nice outing, or a special meal, or engage in a leisure activity once you consistently perform your daily tasks for a week. Looking forward to this reward will serve as a powerful motivator, encouraging your mind to stay dedicated and not miss a day of the task.

Why Rewards Work

People are naturally motivated by the prospect of a positive outcome. By associating your achievements with tangible rewards, you create a positive reinforcement loop. This not only makes the journey more enjoyable but also enhances your commitment to personal growth.

Consider what rewards would genuinely excite and motivate you. Whether it’s a small indulgence or a meaningful experience, planning your reward can turn the pursuit of your goals into a more gratifying and sustainable endeavor.

Conclusion: Don’t Neglect The Affirmations

Personal development leading to personal transformation certainly requires you to step up and take action steps. That’s number one. However, affirmations do have a place in the process. Use them alongside your action plans; they are more powerful that way.

For example, affirming that “I am a winner” right before or soon after your workout holds more weight than simply saying it and hoping to start whenever you feel motivated to.

Remember, the synergy of positive affirmations and concrete actions creates a formidable force for personal growth and transformation. So, as you embark on your journey of self-improvement, integrate both affirmations and actionable steps to unlock your full potential.