Life can be a grind. Day in and day out, you may think you’re on autopilot. You wake up, get the kids ready, make breakfast, and rush to work feeling exhausted before 9 a.m.
Living this way can drain your physical and emotional health. If you don’t take the time to invest in your personal well-being, all aspects of your life can come to a screeching halt. You may burn out and start to feel anxious and/or depressed, unable to be a productive employee. Admitting that something is going on and that you’re taking the time to work on it can give you a sense of relief.
Personal transformation represents a conscious decision to grow and better yourself, and it can take many paths. It can start with calling a mentor or friend and asking for a referral for a therapist. For some, it may be admitting that a bigger problem is at hand and you need to seek professional help from a facility.
Seeing a therapist regularly or going to mental health rehab is a sign of strength, not weakness. It demonstrates a commitment to doing the hard work of undoing harmful thought processes that are holding you back. The good news is, doing this hard work can yield the following professional dividends.
A More Positive Outlook
They say that one bad apple can spoil the bunch, and that’s as true at work as anywhere. When negativity appears, it can easily spread throughout a group of people. Complaining aloud about a late meeting on your calendar or a new project added to your plate can bring others down, too. Your teammates may start to think negatively, even if they’d been excited about the 4:30 p.m. town hall with the CEO.
By working on yourself and changing your own mindset, you can create a ripple effect among your co-workers and the larger team. Instead of being the “Debbie Downer” of the group, your demeanor can be one that attracts others. Soon people will be drawn to you because you are always showing up in an optimistic, can-do way. You’ll be seen as a motivator and may be recognized as a strong leader in your organization.
Turning your outlook around can start with a simple gratitude practice. Each morning, write down a few things you’re truly thankful for. This can include everything from the sun shining to the roof over your head to a loving partner waiting for you downstairs. Being grateful can help put things in perspective, enabling you to focus on the positive. This upbeat attitude will make you a person your colleagues will want to collaborate with.
Readiness for More Responsibility
When your life is in order, you feel like you can take on the world. Instead of shrinking away from new projects, you’ll raise your hand for them. This all comes from a shift in your mindset. Instead of thinking, “There’s no way I can do that,” you’ll think, “I know I’m ready to do that.”
Being confident in your abilities will demonstrate to leaders that you are indeed ready for bigger responsibilities. Instead of waiting for something to be assigned to you, you’ll lean in and volunteer to solve complicated challenges. You’ll look ahead for ways that your specific expertise can apply in certain scenarios.
When seeking to do more at work, set up a meeting with your direct support. Come prepared with a list of recent wins, showcasing how you navigate challenging situations. Let them know that you’re looking for ways to advance in your career. Don’t be afraid to ask for a specific plum assignment. Even if they can’t give you that particular one, they’ll know that you’re raring to go when the next one manifests.
A Sense of Resilience During Change
Change at work is inevitable. A key player on your team may decide to take another position somewhere else. Or your company may be going through a reorganization as a way to operate better. If this results in a change in your direct support, you may feel uneasy about what could happen next. You may begin to worry about your own future at the company.
While these feelings are natural, a personal transformation can help you see the bigger picture. With a growth mindset, you won’t be tempted to lie low, hoping no one will notice you. Rather, you’ll look for opportunities and fresh challenges in the reorganized environment. This is a sign of resilience, and it will earn you the respect and trust of co-workers who are also undergoing the change.
It’s important to note, however, that being resilient doesn’t mean holding everything in and acting like you’re fine with it. When a major change happens at work, don’t be afraid to speak up about your concerns. When appropriate, go to a mentor or leader and let them know how you’re feeling. Ask questions that relate to the situation, remembering that they may not have all the answers. With your new positive outlook, you’ll know that while whatever is happening may not make sense now, you’ll find a way through it.
Personal Transformation That Persists
Doing the work of personal transformation can change your life. That said, don’t expect to wake up one day and feel “transformed” — it’s an ongoing process. Finding an accountability partner can help you maintain your commitment to growth and personal development. Leaning on others can help you as you try new things and move forward personally and professionally.