The Trap

Self Development?

I used to read tons of articles, books, and watch videos about self-development or so called self-help. And I think everyone would agree, it’s not a bad thing at all. 

Yes, it helps, a lot.

I felt like there were real positive changes in me. Like, I got to know myself better, built more confidence, and handled problems I never thought I’d get through. Honestly, self-development felt like it boosted my mood and confidence, making life feel way more meaningful. 

So, what's the problem?

Perfectionist

Well, the thing is, sometimes I feel this pressure to always "succeed" in self-development. There’s an expectation, either from myself or from others, that makes me feel like I have to constantly grow and always be the best version of myself. 

I started to wonder, is self-development supposed to be a burden? 

And then there's the perfectionist in me. It’s like, "What’s this? No improvement at all," or, "You're just getting worse, man." Even though I know that progress is often not visible in the short term, still… 😔. 

Did I really make progress, or is it just in my mind?

Yes, it was real progress.

Back then, the changes I felt were real. But now? Big no. It feels like it's all disappeared. I know the theory, I know what's good and what's not, but the reality is there’s no real implementation. Well, not completely gone, but it’s nowhere near what it used to be. 

Perhaps, over the past few years, I got overconfident, thinking my mindset and habits were solid. I felt like I understood myself better, even thinking I was superior to others that's still struggling with their own journeys. lol. 

In reality, there was no more improvement, I was actually regressing. You just went back to your old self with some knowledge. A real example of the Dunning-Kruger Effect 😔. 

Maybe it’s time for me to do some deeper introspection, reconsider, and evaluate the progress I’ve made. 

Is my progress is real or is it just illusion?

How can I get back on track and apply the knowledge I’ve gained more consistently? It's time for some self-reflection and a renewed commitment to personal growth. Bismillah 😔🤲🏻.