You never stop learning. You’re always improving. Never stop growing.

We hear these phrases many times. Especially if we’re subscribed to self-improvement blogs, or listen to self-help tapes. These are the common themes we get over and over. They’re true statements for sure, but what if we take this concept and just stretch it out a little bit. 

Improve yourself… for the sake of others. 

When you strive to be a better person but do it solely for yourself, you miss out on so much potential.  We all want harmony, peace, and of course… success, in our lives. Self-improvement puts those who lack in those departments on the path to achieving those things. For those of us who feel as though we are already there, continuing to improve ourselves keeps us there and helps us to achieve more of these things.

But if you enter into the idea that your goal is to make yourself a better person for the sake of others, you will find the rewards to be much richer and more satisfying.

Think of what you are trying to improve and think of the ways it will benefit others.

I will improve my listening skills…
…to be a better husband.
…to be a better source of support in my family.
…to better understand the needs of my clients.

I will improve my efficiency…
…so I will have more time to give to my family.
…so I can deliver services to my clients faster.
…so I can help more people by being able to take on new clients.

I will have more compassion in my life…
…so I can care even more for my family and friends.
…so I can respect my clients more.
…so I can help more businesses with those needs I can fulfill.

The wonderful thing about life is in most cases, when you give, you get. And when you least expect it, you get back more than you give.

Try it.

Photo by Hans-Peter