Many of us want to improve our lives. Whether you want to improve your ability to earn money, improve your quality of life, or improve your mind, there’s always room to get better.

If you want to constantly progress and improve, developing the right habits can take you a long way. Here are five habits that, once developed, can help you improve yourself:

1. Read Educational and Inspirational Books

A habit of reading can be one of the best ways to improve yourself. Choose books that are educational and inspirational. Read books about people who’ve achieved goals similar to yours. Whether it’s learning about history, money, business, or art, continue to read. You’ll learn about whatever you are reading of course, but the benefits extend beyond the educational side of things. Those who read have a better ability to focus and stick with the task at hand. It also helps you write better, which is important in an era where so much of your work communication happens online through email.

While reading for enjoyment and relaxation can be a pleasurable experience, it’s not going to have the same effect. Develop a good educational reading habit, and you’ll be well on your way to improvement.

2. Take an Interest in Others

Another way to continually improve is to take an interest in others. Listen to people. Understand their viewpoints. This can help you learn new things, as well as increase your knowledge of the world. Taking an interest in others can also lead to networking opportunities that will improve your career. And, as you get practice listening to others, you’ll develop better relationships, which will improve your emotional life and support system.

3. Try New Things

Get in the habit of trying new things. Branching outside your comfort zone on occasion is a good way to stretch yourself. You also get in the habit of knowing that you can accomplish the impossible. Little by little, trying new things can help you expand your horizons and move you forward. Progress is an important part of self-improvement, and trying new things, whether it’s an exotic food or meeting someone new, can help you take those steps into the future.

4. Make a Plan

Do you have a plan? You need one if you want to keep improving yourself. If you want to improve your finances, you need to make a financial plan. If you want to get into shape, you need an exercise plan. If you want a healthier diet, you need to improve your food plan.

From increasing your knowledge base to getting more sleep at night, a plan can be a big help. You don’t need to spend a lot of money in order to make a plan, either. There are plenty of free online resources for learning, including opencourseware from major universities. Create a schedule and a plan that allows you to make improvements to your life, then stick with it. Results won’t happen overnight but if you stick with it, you’ll get to reap the rewards.

5. Take Time for You

Don’t forget to take time for you. Sometimes you just need to relax and unwind. That way, you can recharge your batteries and be fresh and ready for whatever comes your way. Make time for your hobbies, and for time with your family and loved ones. You often come up with your best work when you’re refreshed. You’ll be more productive, and you’ll be able to make solid progress in your life.

What habits would you add to this list? 

Tagged as: Better Yourself, Lifestyle