a comprehensive collection of self improvement articles with a focus on motivation

Science Proves You Can Improve Your Mind

Posted on June 22, 2007 by Erin Falconer

This fascinating article covers a scientific experiment on neuroplasticity — the brain’s recently discovered ability to change its structure and function, in particular by expanding or strengthening circuits that are used and by shrinking or weakening those that are rarely engaged.

In simple terms, the brain becomes stronger with training and weaker with idleness, similar to the way muscles react to exercise. In the experiment, the brain activity of Buddhist monks (who’ve spent up 10,000 hours in meditation) was compared to novice meditators. Continue reading →

People Do Change

Posted on June 11, 2007 by Erin Falconer

One popular saying that’s always struck me as particularly stupid and harmful is, “People don’t change.” Although everyone has ingrained personality traits, we aren’t held captive by them. Believing that we can’t change encourages us to accept our weaknesses. How … Continue reading →

The Danger of Playing it Safe

Posted on March 19, 2007 by Erin Falconer

It’s human nature to avoid risk. We don’t want to embarrass ourselves. We don’t want to diminish our credibility. So we stay near the center. We censor our words and disguise our true thoughts.

Besides, who are we to tell other people they’re wrong? How can we really be sure of ourselves?

We can’t. But we have to risk being wrong if we ever want to really be right. This quote from John Irving explains why. His example deals with writing, but it applies to any creative endeavor. Continue reading →

self esteem

Overcoming a Loss of Motivation

Posted on January 7, 2007 by Erin Falconer

How many times have you started a new activity (such as a personal project or exercise routine) with a burst of enthusiasm, only to see that initial momentum evaporate? This post will help you get past that motivational block. Continue reading →

Inspirational Quote #3 by Pablo Picasso

Posted on December 14, 2006 by Erin Falconer

-Pablo Picasso

Often times we know what we want to do in a general sense, but we aren’t quite sure where to start. We sit around waiting for the right opportunity but it never comes. When you find yourself in this position DO SOMETHING. DO ANYTHING. You will probably make mistakes and have to start over, but by acting you build a foundation of knowledge, gain experience, and make contacts. One venture leads to another, and before you know it, that opportunity you’re dreaming of presents itself. If you sit around and wait, you will always be waiting. If you really want something get in the game and start making moves. Continue reading →