8 tips for happiness and personal improvement

1. Be quick to listen and slow to speak

Don't always be in a hurry to give replies: this will enable you to understand whoever is communicating with you. Asides from that, listening attentively helps you acquire more knowledge from the conversation.

2. Live this life at your own pace

The journey to greatness is a step-wise process: don't compare yourself to others because our timelines are different. Work hard and Smart, and give your seeds the time they need to germinate. They will grow but be patient while you water them.

3. Respect yourself

In everything, respect others, yet do not tolerate disrespect. People who respect themselves always act with guidance, so always think carefully before taking any significant step.

4. Be humble

A humble person does not think he is superior to others and is devoid of arrogance and self-praise. My sweet mum once said, "When a man humbles himself, God will raise men to uplift him. It is not rocket science. Life is give and take."

5. Be grateful for what you have

A wise man once said, "Once you appreciate the little given to you, you are qualified to be entrusted with many, and the Almighty will increase your harvest."

6. Seek feedback and reviews from others

This helps you to keep track of areas where you need to improve. I've discovered that no man can achieve greatness by standing alone; you need people. No man can achieve excellence by himself; a team must support his efforts.

7. Don't be afraid to make mistakes

Errors and mistakes are essential aspects of life; the most important thing is that you learn from them. Great people see lessons in errors, and the knowledge they acquire from mistakes gives them an edge over others. No matter how often you fall, rise and remain committed to achieving your goal! One day you will succeed.

8. Lastly, Find rest for your soul

Life is full of challenges; we are constantly tasked with solving problems. This is in fulfillment of scriptures: "I have seen the task which God has given to the sons of men with which to occupy themselves." - Ecclesiastes 3:10. The task of solving problems can become burdensome, so you need to rest.

Your body needs rest. Your soul needs rest.

While sleep can help you get physical rest, only God can grant your soul rest.

The Lord said, "Come unto me all ye that labor, and I'll give you rest." In another verse, he said, "Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." - Mathew 11:29

Therefore, seek him, and you will find him - when you search for him with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

2023 is around the corner. It is a new opportunity for us to become better people.

What areas of your life are you ready to work on?

---