We are hard-wired to keep on learning and growing throughout our lives. To feel that we are making progress (as opposed to being stagnant) can give us a significant sense of fulfillment.
As mums, so much of our focus is on our children, their emotional needs, growth and development that it can be hard to find the time to focus on our own.
Author Daniel Pink suggests a simple practice in his book “Drive” that will help you stay focused on growing and making progress. It’s quick and easy, does not require you writing anything down, but can have a profound effect on your life.
Ask yourself this one question at the end of the day, before you go to sleep:
Was I better today than yesterday?
You can think of this in terms of your values - who you want to be and how you want to live your life.
E.g. Yes, I was kinder to myself, more present with my kids, and took time to exercise today.
Alternatively, if there is a specific area in your life that you want to grow and develop (career, relationship, fitness, parenting-style) you could make that your focus.
Many times though, you will answer “no” to this question. That is OK. Daniel Pink reassures us that it’s very unlikely that the answer will be “no” two days in a row.
Why? Because admitting to yourself that you’re not better today than yesterday i.e. that you did not make progress, creates a sense of discontent, that will motivate you to try to make some progress the following day.
Taking small steps every day and keeping yourself accountable, is how you are going to keep on growing. You’ll start to see positive changes in your life, while finding meaning and fulfillment in the process.
