Recently, I began attending a leadership training class that provided me with some valuable information regarding how to effectively lead others. In taking the class, I have grown more aware of the fact that I need to begin eliminating my bad habits in order to be a good leader. Eliminating my bad habits will help me be more competent in my personal life as well. If you are attempting to become more excellent and efficient in your personal and/or professional life, consider whether these bad habits could be bogging you down:
1. Destructive Criticism.
While many people are familiar with the phrase “constructive criticism,” it seems like terms such as “destructive criticism” are not as prevalent in public discourse regarding how we communicate with one another. Although it can be broadly defined, destructive criticism basically amounts to informing others of their faults and shortcomings in a condescending or hostile manner designed to intimidate or ridicule them rather than promote behavior modifications that will enable them to be more effective in their lives. Although some people think the use of destructive criticism is acceptable because it is periodically effective in getting people to change their actions and attitudes, there are less hurtful ways of informing others that their current modes of thinking and acting are not appropriate. Use them.
2. Living In The Past.
Although there are many bad habits that can preclude you from optimizing your life, living in the past may be the worse. This could be so for several reasons, including the fact that focusing on the past often entails reflection on mistakes that we’ve made in previous eras. In continually thinking about such mistakes, we are likely to find ourselves unable to conceptualize how we can operate with efficiency and competence in the future. If you are in the habit of living in the past, make a point to begin enjoying your present life and preparing for the days ahead. There are several ways you can start this process, including by purchasing a planner and filling it with your upcoming appointments to subconsciously remind yourself that you have a future.
3. People Pleaser.
Being a people pleaser is a very debilitating bad habit, and this is the case because it can cause you to live a life that you don’t necessarily want to. In discussing why being a people pleaser is a bad habit, Kimberly Moffit notes that “We naturally want to take care of everyone in our lives.” She then goes on to add that “…if we say yes to everybody who asks us for something, they come to expect it and have a lot less respect for our time and effort.” This can entail resentment and a variety of other negative emotions on our part. So if you’re in the habit of attempting to please other people all the time, begin to modify this behavior so you can lead a healthy life.
Conclusion
Although life is oftentimes a fun and wonderful thing to have, fully enjoying it necessitates continual growth. And part of our growth-whether it be personal or professional-includes the elimination of bad habits. If you find that you are subject to any of the bad habits I’ve listed above, you should begin implementing strategies that help you cease engaging in them. Doing so will help make you a more productive and positive person. Good luck! :)
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