Whenever we have some time to self-reflect and think about ourselves, we often think about the negatives and things that we can’t wait to change about ourselves. In a way, self-reflection is very effective, helps us grow as a person, helps us with our current struggles, and how to overcome them. Usually, these things we want to change about ourselves have to do with the ways we self-destruct ourselves. Self-destruction could be like multiple different things but are elements that hold us back and we think about constantly. We want to change those aspects of our lives, but they have become so integral in a negative way that it is hard to overcome them and feel better and happier. These methods of self-destruction could look different to everyone. To someone, it means spending too much dwelling upon what has already happened and finding ways to make it better even though it is in the past, and to someone else, it could mean something completely different. Here are some ways to overcome self-destruction:
1. Spend time wisely
Usually, we “hate” ourselves or aren’t happy with the way our life is going because we end up spending a lot of meaningless time on things that we don’t need. It happens to me all the time and most likely happens to so many other people, even if you manage time well. We spend hours doing something that probably needed 20-30 minutes max. There are different techniques and methods on how to save time and spend time wisely.
One of my favourite ones that I try to incorporate as much as possible is the Pomodoro technique. Working in short increments of 25 minutes and 5-minute breaks for about 2-3 hours and then taking a break works well and can surprise you how much work you can get done. Take control of your downtime and don’t let it slip through, and don’t try to plan your days down to the second because chances are it won’t play out that way.
2. Pay attention to your failures.
Failure is sometimes hard to deal with, and at other times, you just want to not deal with it at all, so you just put it aside. It is essential just to acknowledge them and then move on. Realizing that it occurred and that you could do something about it in the future is necessary, so they don’t hang over you for an extended period of time. A way you can acknowledge them is to share them with someone close to you or even write it down, so you’re letting your feelings out. Once you realize that it occurred, you can move on without the guilt surrounding you 24/7.
3. Set realistic goals
I am so guilty of this one. I always set such unrealistic goals for the day because I feel like I can accomplish all of them, especially if I didn’t work enough the day before. I think that I can just make up for all of it one day. This is very unrealistic and has a meager chance of actually happening, so it is always better to think wisely before making goals.
Realistic goals can go a long way and make you feel a lot more productive than acting like you can get so much done in a short amount of time. If you have come across non-ideal situations that overwhelm you and feel that you have to complete everything at once, it’s crucial to overcome the problem one step at a time. Accept the idea that it might not go the way you want and just go with the flow. That’s cliche, but just let it happen. Chances are, you’ll feel accomplished and proud at the end.