Gerhard Bothma
From Mahogany to Mastery: A DIY Guide to Wellness and Growth
As a teenager, I loved Diana Ross’ song “Theme from Mahogany.” I just loved singing with her:
“Do you know where you're going to?
Do you like the things that life is showing you?
Where are you going to?
Do you know?”Diana Ross
Later in life – after I started thinking about personal wellness and growth – I changed the lyrics to “Do you know where you’re growing to?” Ever since I sing this every time I think about life and my future. The song ends with: “What you’re hoping for? Do you know?” After five decades of living, there’s one thing I know for sure: we don’t always get what we hope for. There’s no getting via hoping. In this world, we get what we’re gifted and what we work for. I recently saw a poster reading: “Don’t wish for it ... Work for it.” I found that wellness and growth are not a given – we need to work on them.
If only wellness and growth were as easy as wishing for an extra slice of pizza! Wellness and growth are integral parts of our lives, much like the air we breathe (or the pizza we eat). They are not destinations but ongoing journeys that require continuous effort and dedication. In our pursuit of these ideals, it is easy to get lost in comparisons with others, especially in the age of social media where everyone seems to be living their best life. However, true wellness and growth come from within and are deeply personal experiences.
Regarding wellness and growth – as in life – never compare yourself with others. Picture where you were and where you are heading. That’s the only rule for a personal journey. Life is a “D.I.Y. project.” Plan and work to be better than you were. And keep going for better.
Wellness, in its truest sense, encompasses more than just physical health. It includes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. To achieve a state of holistic wellness, we must pay attention to all aspects of our lives. This means nurturing our bodies through healthy eating and regular exercise, our minds through continuous learning and mindfulness practices, and our spirits through meaningful connections and self-reflection. Think of it as the ultimate spa day for your entire being, but one you must create yourself.
Growth, on the other hand, is about evolving and becoming the best versions of ourselves. It’s about setting goals, overcoming challenges, and learning from our experiences. It’s a dynamic process that involves constant change and adaptation. To grow, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new opportunities. We must be open to change and willing to learn from our mistakes – even if that means occasionally tripping over our own shoelaces in the process.
One of the biggest obstacles to personal growth is the fear of failure. We often avoid taking risks because we are afraid of making mistakes. However, failure is an essential part of the growth process. It teaches us valuable lessons and helps us develop resilience. Instead of fearing failure, we should view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Remember, even the best-laid plans sometimes go awry – just ask anyone who’s ever tried to assemble IKEA furniture.
Another key to personal growth is setting realistic and achievable goals. Goals give us direction and purpose, and they help us stay motivated. However, it’s important to set goals that are challenging yet attainable. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and disappointment, whereas achievable goals provide a sense of accomplishment and encourage further growth. Aim high, but don’t try to climb Mount Everest on your first hiking trip.
Self-awareness is also crucial for personal growth. We must take the time to reflect on our strengths and weaknesses, our values, and our aspirations. This self-reflection helps us understand who we are and what we want to achieve in life. It allows us to identify areas for improvement and develop a plan for growth.
Consider it your personal roadmap to success, complete with pit stops for self-improvement snacks.
Wellness and growth are intertwined. When we focus on our well-being, we create a strong foundation for personal growth. Conversely, when we strive for growth, we enhance our overall well-being. It’s a synergistic relationship that leads to a fulfilling and meaningful life. Picture it as a dance – sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow, but you’re always moving forward.
In conclusion, the journey to wellness and growth is a personal and continuous one. It requires effort, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt. We must avoid comparing ourselves to others and focus on our own progress. Life is a “D.I.Y. project,” and we must plan and work to be better than we were. Do you know where you’re growing to? What are you working for? Why not Go for Better? Let’s do it together. Let us Get Better.”