“Life is gritty and hard and then suddenly it is brilliant and amazing.” ― Mel Robbins
I stopped consuming the personal development content I love to devour. Normally, I read and listen to tons of personal development content … books, videos, podcasts and webinars. I’ve gone to SUCCESS Symposiums and Happiness Summits, and I write nationally in the personal development space. In the past year though, I let it slide. I acted like I ate a big meal and I was full. Girl brimming with personal development knowledge over here, no need to keep learning. I let the challenges of this year drift me away from doing something I love.
High performance coach Brendon Burchard tells us that our schedules should reflect what we value. He says he should be able to glance at our calendar apps (or paper calendar) and easily see what we are working on and what we care about.
Gulp.
My schedule stopped reflecting what I value.
So, I got back to personal development. I listen to podcasts when I walk our dogs or make lunch. I squeeze in some reading before our daughters wake up. I quickly remembered how much I love empowering words, and how it works.
I’m a huge believer in how a book, a person, a speech, a podcast or even a simple sentence can change your life for the better.
Take for example, the legendary Jim Rohn. He said, “Do not neglect.” His three words serve as a reminder not to neglect on our health, goals or problems. Nothing gets better with avoidance.
Powerful.
Personal development (PD) is like a battery for humans—leaving you full of energy once you plug in. PD provides a constant reminder that you’re stronger than you think you are and you can do more than you might think. PD can fire you up, inspire, and shift your perspective to what’s possible.
Words can change lives. Daily reminders can make a big difference.
As I worked on my Christmas cards Sunday, I tuned in to a couple more podcasts. Ed Mylett said, “You will never exceed what you think you’re worth.” Dang.
Jay Shetty said, “The magnet of your life will pull you toward your strengths.”
Even though I’ve studied personal development for decades, I can’t make the mistake of thinking my learning is done. In a year that has pummeled many of us, we need to return to the well of what charges us when inspiration wanes.
PD comes in many forms.
I need the trainer at the gym to tell me to pick up the heavier med ball.
I need the performance coach (in the pages of a book) to remind me to step up my game and put in the extra effort.
I need my friend who reminds me to focus on three priorities for the day and to quit operating with my entire To Do List in front of me.
We need to draw strength and resilience from the sources that inspire us. A pep talk only lasts so long. You might need another one tomorrow. 
Sandra Bilbray is a nationally published writer, regular contributor to Live Happy, and publisher of Asheville Macaroni Kid. She lives in Asheville with her husband, twin girls and two dogs. Email Sandra at SandraB@macaronikid.com
