Self-improvement is crucial in to become or remain successful. It is the path through which progress is made with the understanding that one can change for the better. With self-improvement, one may discover new things about herself while gaining a newfound sense of self-respect and happiness.

Each individual has imperfections and insecurities that may influence the way she views herself and those around her. Self-Improvement can eliminate these negative feelings and crete a more positive, confident attitude.

Although most strive to be their best selves, they do not usually realize the need for change until they experience a situation that affects them negatively.

High school counselor Donna Eisen said, “Sometimes individuals may become frustrated with their life circumstance and come to realize that the only way to improve this circumstance is through change.”

Improving oneself is a difficult task for many because of a lack of motivation, discipline or commitment. Believing that the change will happen is key because a lack of enthusiasm for the outcome will lead to failure in accomplishing the goal.

“People may be used to the lifestyle they live, no matter how good or bad it is and be afraid of making a change because they have done it for so long that it has become a part of who they are,” said Eisen. “They are fearful of the outcome of the change.”

According to self-improvement-success.com, once an individual starts living with certain beliefs, set of behaviors, relationships or work environment, it becomes her comfort zone. She feels secure in that zone and will fight against stepping out of it. This is what makes life stagnant, and at times the person may not be able to reach her full potential.

Improvement usually begins with frustration, disappointment, shame or feelings of resentment towards oneself. These feelings can either be the fuel to power change or it can make one become more absorbed in her faults.

According to mysuperchargedlife.com, people can identify their problems, but the reason why change is so difficult is the way they approach it. The approach that everyone usually aims for is radical change, which rarely works because it forces one to change habits all at once. People often commit themselves to more change than their brains can handle, which usually results in failure.

“Make sure to have a support system from trustworthy individuals who will help to guide, encourage and support throughout the process,” said Eisen. “Secondly, make the change a daily habit. It will take time, but it is important to keep a positive attitude and never give up.”

There are many books, CDs and magazines that claim to help with self-improvement; however, only the individual herself can really make a difference in her life. No one can convince another to change her habits because the person must first realize and understand what she needs to improve and then follow through.