Ava Sinclair
Life is a privilege and a blessing, although it might not always feel that way.
And when it comes down to actually living, there’s a world of difference between simply going through the motions and truly living life to the fullest.
And it all comes down to growth – that amazing journey of evolving and becoming the best version of ourselves.
Getting stronger isn’t just about muscles; it’s about resilience, empathy, and knowing yourself inside and out.
And getting better? That’s about learning from the past, enjoying the present, and making a future you’re excited about.
Wondering if you’re on the right track?
Here are 8 signs that you’re not just changing, but transforming into a better, stronger you.
1) Embracing change
There’s an age-old saying, “The only constant in life is change.” It’s a truth we all grapple with, whether we like it or not.
Becoming a better and stronger person isn’t an overnight miracle. It’s a continuous journey, punctuated by changes big and small.
Ironically, most of us resist change. We prefer the comfort of the known over the uncertainty of the new. But those who are truly evolving understand this – change is not only inevitable, but it’s also necessary.
When you start welcoming change instead of fearing it, you’re already on the path to becoming a stronger person. You begin to see each change as an opportunity to learn, grow, and stretch your capabilities.
So ask yourself this: Are you embracing change or are you running from it?
If it’s the former, congratulations!
You’re becoming a better and stronger person. And remember – growth and comfort rarely co-exist.
2) Cultivating resilience
Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs at us just when we think we’ve got everything figured out. It’s happened to me more times than I can count.
One particular instance that stands out was when I lost my job unexpectedly. It hit me hard, and for a while, I wallowed in self-pity and worry. But then, I realized something – my worth is not tied to my job.
With this newfound perspective, I picked myself up, dusted off the self-doubt, and focused on what I could control. I started actively searching for new opportunities, learned new skills, and even explored avenues I wouldn’t have considered otherwise.
This experience taught me the invaluable lesson of resilience. It’s not about never falling down; it’s about getting back up every single time you fall.
If you’re finding that you bounce back from setbacks quicker than you used to, or perhaps you’re facing challenges head-on rather than avoiding them – that’s a surefire sign you’re becoming a stronger person.
Remember, it’s not the adversity, but how we respond to it that defines us.
3) Practicing empathy
Empathy is more than understanding someone else’s feelings—it’s about sharing them, putting yourself in their shoes, and feeling what they feel.
Neuroscience research has shown that when we empathize with others, our brains release oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.”
This hormone promotes bonding, trust, and a sense of security.
So, science shows that empathy strengthens our relationships and has a positive effect on our own well-being – sounds too good to be true, right?
If you find yourself naturally understanding and sharing the emotions of others, congrats!
You’re not just becoming a better person; you’re also reaping the benefits of increased oxytocin in your brain.
Empathy is just like a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it gets.
4) Setting healthy boundaries
It’s easy to get caught up in the swirl of demands and expectations from people around us – family, friends, coworkers, and even society at large.
But a crucial sign of personal growth is recognizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries.
Boundaries are not walls; they’re guidelines for how we want to be treated. They help us safeguard our time, protect our energy, and prioritize our emotional well-being.
In the words of therapist and author Nedra Glover Tawwab, “Boundaries are the distance between where I end and you begin.”
Just keep in mind that respecting your own boundaries is as important as respecting others’. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
5) Forgiving and letting go
There’s a certain heaviness that comes with carrying grudges and clinging onto past hurts. It’s like dragging a suitcase filled with rocks everywhere you go. The longer you hold on, the heavier it gets.
Becoming a better person often involves learning to forgive – not just others, but also yourself.
Forgiveness is not about forgetting or condoning wrongdoings; it’s about freeing yourself from the burden of resentment and anger.
When you start forgiving and letting go, you’ll feel lighter, more peaceful, and more open to positive experiences.
Clinical psychologist Everett Worthington has been studying the correlation between happiness and forgiveness for 30 years and states that there are many benefits, including less rumination and anxious thinking anxiety.
“There are a lot of benefits to the person who forgives. The main way that forgiveness affects mental health is by lowering rumination.”
It’s a liberating sensation that signals you’re growing stronger and becoming more compassionate.
So, if you’re finding it easier to let go of old hurts and forgive those who have wronged you, take heart.
You’re not just becoming a better person – you’re also cultivating inner peace and emotional resilience.
6) Seeking self-improvement
I remember a time when I was complacent about myself and my abilities. I believed I had peaked, and there was no room for improvement.
But slowly, I realized that there’s always something new to learn, always a way to grow.
This realization led me to seek self-improvement actively. I started reading more, attending workshops, and challenging myself in ways I never thought possible.
The journey towards self-improvement is never-ending. It’s about being a little better than you were yesterday, about constantly challenging your limits.
If you find yourself with an insatiable thirst for learning new things or improving existing skills, it’s a sure sign you’re evolving into a stronger person.
Growth stops when you become satisfied with where you are. So keep pushing, keep learning, and keep growing.
7) Valuing authenticity
In a world that often encourages us to conform, being true to yourself is an act of courage. Authenticity is about aligning your actions with your beliefs and values, even if they go against the grain.
Being authentic not only cultivates self-respect and integrity but also fosters genuine connections with others. People are drawn to authenticity; it’s relatable, inspiring, and refreshing.
If you’re embracing your quirks, expressing your thoughts and feelings honestly, and not afraid to stand up for what you believe in, you’re becoming a better person.
Honoring your authenticity is a testament to your inner strength.
Know that it’s better to be an original version of yourself than a second-rate version of someone else.
8) Practicing gratitude
Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a mindset, a way of looking at the world. It’s about acknowledging the good in your life and appreciating the small joys.
Research has shown that practicing gratitude regularly can lead to increased happiness, reduced depression, and improved physical health. It’s a powerful tool for transforming your outlook on life.
If you find yourself feeling genuinely thankful for what you have and expressing that gratitude to others, that’s a clear sign you’re becoming a better and stronger person.
Gratitude not only makes us happier but also makes us more resilient, allowing us to weather life’s storms with grace and positivity.
It’s an ongoing journey
Growth and improvement isn’t a journey where the goal is always about reaching a final destination; it’s about embracing the ups and downs, the challenges and triumphs that shape us along the way.
Part of this is becoming a lifelong learner who is always open to new experiences and perspectives.
So, keep pushing your boundaries, keep celebrating your wins, and most importantly, keep being kind to yourself throughout the process.
You’re stronger than you think, and the best is yet to come!
