7 signs you’ve legitimately become a better person in life, according to psychology

We’ve all heard the saying, “Change is the only constant.” But have you ever stopped to ponder if you’ve truly changed for the better?

Now, I’m not talking about the superficial changes like finally mastering a tricky yoga pose or getting that promotion at work.

I’m referring to the deep, internal shifts that transform us into better versions of ourselves.

You might be scratching your head, thinking, “How do I know if I’ve genuinely become a better person?” Well, psychology may have some answers.

In this article, we’re going to delve into the 7 signs that indicate you’ve legitimately become a better person in life.

This isn’t about patting ourselves on the back for minor improvements. It’s about recognizing meaningful growth and acknowledging our journey towards becoming better human beings.

So, are you ready to reflect on your personal evolution and celebrate your progress?

Let’s dive in.

1) You practice empathy

You know that old saying, “walk a mile in someone else’s shoes”? It’s all about empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

So, take a moment to reflect. Have you become more understanding and sensitive towards others’ feelings and experiences?

According to psychology, empathy is an essential quality that reflects personal growth. It helps us build stronger relationships and contribute positively to the world around us.

So, if you’re naturally empathetic or have consciously cultivated this trait, give yourself a pat on the back. You’re showing signs of becoming a better person.

2) You’re comfortable in your own skin

There’s something liberating about accepting yourself, warts and all. It’s a sign of maturity and personal growth.

If you asked me a few years ago if I was comfortable being myself, I’d probably laugh nervously and change the topic. I used to be constantly worried about fitting in, saying the right things, and making the right impression.

But over time, I realized that trying to be someone I wasn’t was exhausting and unfulfilling. I started focusing on accepting and loving myself, quirks included.

You see, self-acceptance is a key indicator of personal development. It means you’ve moved beyond the need for external validation and found peace within yourself.

Have you reached a point where you feel comfortable in your own skin? Congrats! You’ve taken a significant step towards becoming a better person.

3) You’ve learned to let go of grudges

Here’s a confession. I used to be a master grudge-holder. If someone wronged me, I’d hold onto that hurt like a trophy, polishing it with reminders of how I’d been wronged.

But let’s be real. That trophy didn’t make me feel victorious; it weighed me down.

It took countless self-reflection sessions and a lot of courage to realize that holding onto grudges wasn’t making me a better person. It was just causing more hurt and preventing me from moving forward.

Psychology agrees here. Research shows that forgiveness is an important component of mental health and well-being. Letting go of resentment can significantly reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance personal relationships.

So, if you’ve found the strength to forgive and let go of past hurts, you’re on the right path. You’re showing resilience, maturity, and yes, signs of becoming a better person.

4) You’re open to change

Change can be daunting, right? It’s like stepping into uncharted territory without a map. But embracing change, rather than resisting it, is a clear sign of personal growth.

Think about it. Do you adapt when circumstances shift? Do you welcome new ideas and experiences with an open mind?

In other words, the ability to adapt to change is linked to improved mental health and increased life satisfaction. It’s about being flexible and resilient in the face of life’s unpredictability.

Have you started viewing change as an opportunity for growth rather than an inconvenience?

Then, that’s a big thumbs up! You’re demonstrating one of the key signs of becoming a better person in life.

5) You’ve learned to appreciate the small things

There’s a Japanese concept called “Ichigo Ichie,” which translates to “once in a lifetime encounter.” It’s all about cherishing every moment, no matter how mundane or ordinary it may seem.

So, do you pause to appreciate the everyday miracles, like the warmth of the sun on your skin or the sound of laughter?

Psychologists have found that practicing gratitude for the small things significantly boosts happiness. It’s about shifting focus from what’s wrong to what’s right in our lives.

In essence, when you start to find joy in the simplest of things, you’re definitely on your path to becoming a better person. Trust me, it’s the small things that make big differences.

6) You’ve become more giving

Have you ever noticed how helping someone makes you feel good inside? I’ve found that the simple act of lending a hand or sharing a smile can brighten my day.

Being generous is more than just about giving material things. It’s about giving your time, your attention, and sometimes, your shoulder for someone to lean on.

In fact, research suggests that altruism – the selfless concern for the well-being of others – is a key indicator of personal growth. Not only does it enhance our own happiness, but it also fosters stronger relationships and promotes a sense of community.

So, if you find yourself being more generous and selfless, take it as a positive sign. You’re becoming a kinder, better person.

7) You’re committed to continuous learning

The journey of personal growth doesn’t have an end. It’s a lifelong process of learning, unlearning, and relearning.

Whether it’s picking up a new skill, expanding your knowledge on a certain topic, or simply learning more about yourself – the desire to constantly learn is a surefire sign of becoming a better person.

Psychological studies reveal that lifelong learning is associated with increased cognitive function, improved mental well-being, and greater life satisfaction.

The key?

Keep going, and never stop learning.

The final reflection

Have you been nodding along while reading this article? Then take a moment to congratulate yourself. Recognizing these signs implies you’re on a beautiful journey of personal growth.

But remember – becoming a better person isn’t a destination, but a continuous journey. It demands conscious effort, patience, and self-love.

Embrace the process. You might stumble or face challenges along the way, but that’s part of growth. Each misstep is an opportunity to learn something valuable about yourself and the world around you.

So, keep striving for growth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Take courage in knowing that each step you take is making you a better version of yourself.