Life is what we make it, and it's also a constant exercise of self-improvement and to become a better person.

For some, this means that one should focus on becoming more educated and successful in their chosen field. Little did they know that it's not their purpose in life. How you treat yourself and those around you is one of the most important things in life. Though, because of all the pressure and stress, the idea of becoming a “better” person turns nothing, but a dream. However, that doesn't mean that it should always be like that.

If you want to become a better person, the first thing that you ought to do is learn what it truly means and slowly develops your persona into something you don't mind turning into. This will make you happier and more contented.

With that, here are some of the most practical ways on how to become a better person:

Be Open to Change

To become a better person, the first step that you must do is be willing to change. This is the only way to grow and become the person you want to be. Though this is easier said than done, and a lot of people are even against this belief. Thus, it prevents them to move out of their shell and grow. However, if you'll keep an open mind and be open to this idea, you'll slowly grow into the person you want to become.

Say Goodbye to Excuses

Let's be honest to ourselves, when we were younger, we used to have a habit of making excuses every time something went wrong. This could range from shifting the blame to your peers, customers, teachers, or anyone else involved. The only person we never dare to blame is ourselves.

Taking accountability for your mistakes is crucial. You must stop making excuses and take the blame when it's truly your fault. Through this, you'll be able to achieve more-- even more than what you've expected. Likewise, understanding that you made a mistake can be used as a tool to learn from it and become a better person.

Control Your Anger

A lot of people let anger and rage take over their body, which affects their way of thinking. If you used to be an angry person growing up, perhaps, you've already better person 3 seen the damage it makes, not only to yourself but people around you as well.

It's true that controlling your emotions is not an easy task. In fact, it's a difficult skill to master, and it requires a lot of determination and perseverance.

Instead of getting angry every time something went wrong, try to look for ways on how to change that negative emotion of yours. Staying angry won't help in solving your problems, it'll just make everything worse. So, instead of focusing on that negative event or situation, try to find some ways on how to relax your nerves, such as a stress ball.

Be a Role Model

Sometimes, to get your act together, being a role model is advisable. For instance, once you become a successful entrepreneur , people will start looking up to you, and you'll be made more cautious about the way you behave. You don't want to disappoint these people by showing how immature or irresponsible you are.

Start small by being a “big brother” or “big sister” to someone. You can coach a kid's team or be a role model to your children. It doesn't matter what you choose to do, always make decisions thinking that the person looking up to you will respect you.

Learn to Forgive

It's hard to forgive, especially those who hurt you a lot. In fact, if you got upset at someone for doing something, chances are, you'll think that you'll never forgive them no matter what. Sometimes, even if it was a petty thing, we still have the tendency of holding a grudge.

You must learn that humans aren't perfect, and they're prone to making mistakes. However, instead of holding on to those wrongdoings, just try to forgive them. To become a better person, you must learn how to move on and just bury the past.

Listen

Most of us are busy with our lives, careers, and families . Everyone seems to be in a rush, and that's why a lot of people rarely ever have time to listen to what the person has to say. Listening to people and giving everyone a voice is one of the noblest things you can do.

Through this, you can meet some of the most amazing people, develop connections, and close some of the biggest deals you never thought possible. Be a good listener and see who this can change your life positively.

my day begins and ends with gratitudeBe Honest

The harsh reality of life: Honest people are rare nowadays. However, we'll all agree that it's the best remedy for any situation. If you're determined to become a better person, try to promise yourself that you won't tell any lies for a month or more.Challenge yourself to become more honest, and if you're a compulsive liar, try, to be honest even for just a single day. Baby steps.

Take Risks

Keeping an open mind and trying the things you never dared doing before is one of the easiest ways to become a better person. Don't be afraid to take a risk and challenge yourself every day. Try something that you've never even thought of doing. This is the only way to learn and move on to the next level.

Make Surprises!

Do you have a special someone in your life? It doesn't matter if it's your spouse, parents, friends, or a pet, plan a special surprise for them whenever you can. If you know someone who deserves a break, a nice vacation, or a wonderful gift, don't think twice and just buy it!

One of the most rewarding feelings in the world is to know that you made someone smile, even for just an hour. So, what are you waiting for? Surprise that special person in your life by doing something extraordinary!

Love

The famous song, “All You Need Is Love” by the Beatles, is true. You need it, and everyone around you also needs it. Wherever you go, whoever you interact with, and anyone you meet along the way is looking for this somewhere. That being said, practice love whenever you can, and this will give you the change you're aiming for.

Author's Bio: 

My name is Frans Bouckenooghe, born in Roeselare, Belgium.
In 1980, I immigrated with my Rarotongan (Cook Islands) wife Tangata and two children to New Zealand.I am a self-employed Registered Building Surveyor. I identify and report on building defects. I love my work.
Besides work, I enjoy the company of family and friends, travelling, writing, and photography.

I believe that little can be accomplished in life without some investment in yourself. Keep fit, consume right, practice kindness, remain positive and keep your curiosity up. Treat these things as similarly important to love and friendship and I think you have a much better chance to lead a happy life.

For more inspirational and motivational reading please visit my website www.spiritualzest.com