Many people see the word self-help and think of mental health or public speakers. The uses are accurate but don’t cover the topic completely. The Oxford Dictionary defines self-help as the use of one’s own efforts and resources to achieve things without relying on others.
But, helping yourself is more than just surviving day to day, as we often do. No thoughts of the future mean no plan for the future and that may lead to depression, hopelessness and a sense of being on a hamster wheel — going nowhere, fast. We must not let our lives be consumed with the here and now. Even though it is important, it should not be the primary focus.
Every day is a step toward the future. Life is a journey that only moves forward, without the luxury of going back. When this perspective is understood, a plan to create a more productive future can be made, implemented, and rewarded with a life that is happy and bountiful.
The past will serve as lessons learned and cautionary tales rather than a crutch, an excuse of why current goals cannot be reached. The past is not a sad tale to use for pity or charity, it is motivation to do better, motivation to do what others call impossible.
Education is the way to begin real self-help. Education shouldn’t start and doesn’t end with formal schooling. Education comes from experience — reading, trying, failing, persistence and never-ending curiosity. Generations have passed down knowledge but don’t stop there. Seek more and live in abundance, an abundance of love, energy, time, experience and drive to help yourself so that your journey may help those around you. Live in a solution-based mindset, no longer focused on the problem alone. The journey is not easy but that is why it’s a journey, not a destination to the future. A better life of abundance and happiness is waiting for you amidst the process. Trust the process.
