Of all the things that you should invest in, your personal development comes top of the list. Although investing in the stock market and real estate properties can bring you lots of cash, investing in yourself can bring you even more: fulfillment. You are yourself’s greatest asset. Investing in yourself allows you to achieve more things, and eventually earn more.
From seeking a mentor to taking piano lessons, here are some practical ways to invest in yourself:
1. Find a mentor
Mentoring has many benefits, for both mentor and mentee. A mentor can give you practical advice that you can use not just in the workplace, but in real life as well. A mentor can give you the support and encouragement that you need. Choose a mentor whose values align with yours. You will have a smoother and more productive relationship if you both uphold the same ideals. Your personality should also match the personality of your mentor. You will be in an uncomfortable situation if you have opposing personalities.
You can enjoy the following benefits when you have a mentor:
- You can gain some insights and learn from the experiences of your mentor.
- You become socially confident.
- You develop your communication and interpersonal skills.
- You establish valuable friendships and networks.
2. Enroll in workshops and classes that are aligned with your profession
Update your skill set by enrolling in classes and workshops that will help you develop a new skill. New expertise can make you more valuable in your workplace. Enroll in online continuing education classes and workshops which are relevant to your profession.
When you expand your skills, you also allow yourself to explore other career options. Your mentor can help you pick which workshops and classes you should enroll based on your goals so that you don’t end up wasting your resources doing trial and error.
You can also enroll in investment workshops so that you will learn the techniques and strategies that you can use when you invest in the stock market, bonds, and funds. This will allow you to make calculated investments and reduce the risks that normally come with investing.
3. Work on your artistic creativity
Exploring other talents can help you expand your horizons. If you are amazed by paintings and artworks, enroll in a painting class. If music soothes and relaxes you, look for seasoned piano teachers and enroll in piano lessons. Learning new skills outside of your work is also good for your personal development and your mental health.
When you have an artistic hobby outside your work, you have an alternative outlet for all your thoughts, dreams fears, and desires. Having an outlet reduces the risk of depression and mental problems. It also makes you calmer and more empathetic. Other artsy hobbies that you can do are sketching, writing poetry, jewelry making, knitting, and even wood carving. You do not have to be good at them to enjoy the benefits these hobbies bring. These forms of self-expression should be enjoyed and done with leisure. Do not pressure yourself to be excellent at your artistic pursuits. A hobby should bring you comfort, not to make you feel more anxious and pressured.
4. Play some sports
Playing solo or team sports provides you a healthy way to release all those tensions and pent-up pressure. Feeling frustrated about some problems in your new project? Sweat it out in a game of tennis. Swim some laps to relax your mind. Have a fun basketball game with your friends.
You do not have to be a pro to enjoy a good sport. The benefits of playing sports include the following:
- Builds a strong character
- Develops analytical and strategic thinking
- Develops strong leadership skills
- Encourages goal setting
- Develops fine and gross motor skills
- Improves your sleep pattern and quality of sleep
- A healthier and stronger body
- Clean and old-fashioned fun
5. Exercise regularly
No matter how busy you get, make time for your physical health. Sitting all day in front of your computer can be detrimental to your body. Sitting all day can increase your risks of heart diseases, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It can shorten your life. A healthy lifestyle does not only cover what you eat, but it also covers your activities throughout the day.
Make time for at least 30 minutes of cardio activities like brisk walking or a slow jog around your block. Aside from the health benefits they bring, they also help you clear your mind after a long day at work.
You can do other things for your self-improvement. Make time to develop yourself, and watch your life grow and transform for the better.
