“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
Maya Angelou
February is here and by now, you’re either celebrating progress on your New Year’s goals or feeling a bit of guilt. Who hasn’t been there? The good news is you can start fresh any day of the year.
As I’ve gotten older I’m focused less on the New Year goal-setting train and more on simply being a better version of myself each day. And I mean this when I say it. I miss the target often, but that’s what makes us human.
Much like how people are competitive in sports, it’s a great challenge to compete your today against your yesterday. It takes courage to look deeply at yourself and ask, “How can I become a better version of myself?”
Sidebar: This is actually how I came up with the tagline for BrandRoots: Become a better creative; because I think you can become a better creative by learning a little bit each day. I also believe that if you make effort to improve yourself, you too will improve your creative work in tandem.
So, how do you become a little better each day? Let’s explore some micro habits and activities that can add valuable change, even if just a little shift.
“Reading is essential for those who seek to rise above the ordinary.”
Jim Rohn
Read
In an age dominated by digital media, reading remains a timeless habit with profound benefits. By delving into books, articles, and diverse literature, you expose yourself to a variety of viewpoints and ideas. It enhances your critical thinking and broadens your understanding of the world around and within you.
Benefits:
- Enhanced Knowledge: Insights into different fields and subjects.
- Improved Empathy: Understand experiences and cultures different from your own.
- Confidence Boost: The more you learn, the more confident you become.
Start with just 15 minutes a day on subjects that interest you. I read multiple books at a time, spanning business, creative work, philosophy, and even comic strips. Currently, I’m reading Coach Builder by Donald Miller, Mailed It by Ashley Budd, Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis and The Stories We Tell by Joanna Gaines—none of which are in common with each other.
Want some recommendations? Check out my book list—and a shameless plug for my own book!
“Brave leaders are never silent about hard things.”
Brené Brown
Listen to Podcasts
Podcasts offer a convenient way to absorb information while multitasking—whether driving, exercising, or doing chores. What makes many podcasts so unique is the connection and storytelling that a podcast host has with their guests. It’s like having deep conversations on your front porch.—I love it.
Benefits:
- Time-Efficient: Learn on the go.
- Accessible: Available on various devices.
- Diverse Content: Endless topics to explore.
Download a podcast app (I use Pocket Casts) or explore YouTube podcasts; favorite the podcasts that align with your interests and schedule times to listen. My podcast listening happens on my driving commutes and at night in replacement of tv shows. I have far too many podcasts to list my favorites. Podcasts are like reading books with a wide array of perspectives that open your mind to new ideas.
“You can make anything by writing.”
C.S. Lewis
Write
Writing sharpens your thinking, creativity, and communication. Whether journaling, blogging, or professional writing, this habit fosters self-awareness and improves articulation; and being able to clearly articulate is like having a super power in communications.
Benefits:
- Enhanced Communication: Convey ideas clearly.
- Personal Reflection: Understand your emotions and experiences.
- Professional Growth: High-quality writing enhances your career.
Start small with a daily journal entry or weekly blog post. My writing spans articles, book projects, and a personal autobiography. The more you practice, the better you get. The more you read, the better you’ll get as well. Give a short writing session a try.
“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”
William Arthur Ward
Express Gratitude
When it comes to gratitude I’m not talking about writing three gratitudes a day in a journal. I’m all for that, but it can become so routine in habit that it looses its strong essence. —I’m not talking about “observing” gratitudes. I’m talking about “sharing” gratitudes.
Expressing gratitude is a habit that can transform your relationships and overall well-being. By regularly acknowledging and appreciating the people around you, you foster stronger connections and cultivate a positive environment and life.
Benefits:
- Strengthened Relationships: Show others you value them.
- Increased Happiness: Gratitude boosts personal satisfaction.
- Enhanced Team Dynamics: Improves collaboration and morale.
List people who’ve positively impacted you and simply thank them—through a text, email, letter, or face-to-face. Sharing gratitude might feel vulnerable, but it’s uplifting for both you and the recipient.
To give some ideas: In the past I’ve personally delivered letters to people that expressed my appreciation for them making an impact in my life. One holiday season I skipped the traditional greeting cards and sent gratitude cards instead. Recently I gave someone a gratitude jar that had cards of appreciation inside.
I firmly believe that if someone has made a positive impact on your life, they deserve to know it. Try it. It’ll internally change you for the better and maybe the person receiving it.
“You have to be burning with an idea, or a problem, or a wrong that you want to right. If you’re not passionate enough from the start, you’ll never stick it out.”
Steve Jobs
Start a Side Project
Side projects let you explore new skills, passions, and expand your portfolio. Whether developing an app, creating art, or starting a business, they offer personal fulfillment and new opportunities.
Benefits:
- Skill Development: Learn new competencies.
- Creative Outlet: Express creativity and innovation.
- Interest Discovery: Find new passions.
- Career Advancement: Shows initiative and versatility.
Choose a project aligned with your interests and set realistic goals. Throughout life I’ve explored coding, video production and editing, writing, drawing, painting (oh I’m so awful at it but love it!)—each project has been a gateway to growth.
Pick something you’re interested in. Watch a YouTube video about it. Read a book about it. And then do a thing with it. Let’s go!
“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”
Pablo Picasso
Volunteer
Volunteering pushes you beyond your comfort zone and connects you with like-minded individuals. It’s fulfilling and meaningful, changing how you see the world and yourself.
When you volunteer you get to use your talents to help make a positive impact in the community around your circles. Along the way you meet the most amazing and inspiring people who are also passionate about making the world a better place. Who doesn’t want to be around people like this?
Benefits:
- Personal Growth: Builds confidence and resilience.
- Connection & Community: Uplifts and motivates you.
- Purpose & Fulfillment: Engages you in meaningful work.
Research local non-profits you care about, decide on your commitment, and introduce yourself. It’s about passion, not just free work—find the right fit and make a powerful impact.
To do something meaningful will fill your cup and overflow it. It’ll stretch you to grow as a person and in your creative work.
Becoming a better version of yourself doesn’t require a grand overhaul—just small, intentional habits over time. Whether reading, writing, or volunteering, each action fuels growth. When you improve yourself, you bring fresh energy and clarity to your creative work. Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up each day.
What will you do today to help your tomorrow self—and elevate your creativity?