Self Improvement Ideas From Psychology

Self Improvement Resources

It seems that an increasing array of self improvement ideas have roots in psychology. This is probably because more and more self help gurus (including Dr. Wayne W Dyer and Jack Canfield from The Secret) have backgrounds as counselors and therapists.

And psychology's influence on self help is only likely to increase thanks to former president of the American Psychological Association, Martin Seligman. At the turn of the century he formalized a new branch of study called Positive Psychology; an inquiry into what creates happiness and fulfillment in mankind.

Following are some psychological self improvement ideas that I've discovered via the self help arena. Try them out. I have found all of these useful.

Cognitive Reframing

Of all the self improvement ideas I share on this site, cognitive reframing is by far my favorite. It's easy to practice and is a powerful way to challenge long-held beliefs, even the kind that we stubbornly hold onto at all costs. By learning how to reframe the stories we tell ourselves we can shift our perception of the world as a limited, fixed place to a universe of endless possibility and potential.

Defense Mechanisms

We all have inbuilt defense mechanisms that help us distort reality in such a way that it makes it easier for us to cope with existence. But if a person's defense mechanisms go unchecked, they can wreak havoc in their life. Read about the most common types of defense mechanisms and see if you can identify how you use them -- and possibly overuse some -- in your life.

Selective Perception

Many self help gurus talk about the importance of focus. Selective perception explains why conscious focus is so important. There is simply too much stimulus in our environments for our conscious mind to process. Because of this, selective perception filters certain stimulus out of our awareness. What makes it into our awareness depends on our beliefs and values.

The Theory Of Self-Efficacy

Self-efficacy is a psychological concept about the power of personal beliefs. Developed by Canadian psychologist, Albert Bandura, the theory states that people with high levels of self-efficacy have a greater chance of success in any given task. That's irregardless of talent and skills! Find out here if you have high self-efficacy and what a low self-esteem or lack of belief in yourself is costing you.

Self Criticism

Being truthful about your strengths and weakness is important. But too much focus on your negative traits can slowly wear you down. A critical predictor of success is deciding where you put your emphasis. If you focus on improving your weaknesses you will at best reach mediocrity. If you focus on honing your strengths, your potential for success is virtually unlimited!

Neuro-Linguistic Programming

NLP, or Neuro-Linguistic Programming, is a model for self development that was created in the 1970's at the University of California. Anthony Robbins has since become an avocate of the approach and much of his earlier work drew on NLP techniques. At its core, NLP provides a framework for an individual to model the behaviors and mindsets of successful people in order to replicate them in themselves.

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