If you’ve been on the internet, you’ve probably seen the term “Do the Work,” generally referencing some sort of self-improvement.
But what does it mean, really?
“Doing the work” refers to an individual’s active and conscious efforts to understand, heal, and grow within their mental and emotional landscape.
For me, it’s about turning the focus on myself, finding the areas of my life where I need some healing or growth, and working to resolve issues that hinder me in my day-to-day life.
I’ve worked on different areas of my life depending on the season: my ability to focus, relationships, parenting, self-soothing, and overall health. It’s been hard each time, but I never regretted doing the work.
Looking back, I’m glad I had the awareness even to start. Nothing saddens me more than watching a loved one repeat the same old unhealthy patterns, never understanding their role or ability to change it.
No matter your current situation, you have the ability to change it. Rarely is it a sudden change that resolves everything. Most likely, it will take small steps of progress and a bit of failure over a long period of time.
Future you will thank you for starting today.
Here’s how you can do the work now:
1. Self-Discovery
This involves exploring one’s thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and behaviors. It’s about asking the hard questions to get to the root of personal challenges and understanding what drives them.
2. Therapy and Professional Help
“Doing the work” might mean seeking professional guidance from a therapist, counselor, or mentor. They can provide tools, insights, and support in working through mental health issues.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation
Be present and intentional with thoughts and feelings. Mindfulness techniques and meditation practices can cultivate a deeper connection with oneself and promote emotional healing.
4. Lifestyle Changes
Make choices that support mental well-being, such as eating, exercising, sleeping, and reducing stressors. These changes can make a significant difference in overall mental health.
5. Emotional Resilience
Developing resilience helps individuals to cope with life’s ups and downs. This might involve learning to respond rather than react, developing coping strategies, and building a support system.
6. Boundaries
Improving boundaries, relationships, and communication with others can also be part of “doing the work.” This could involve addressing conflicts, building empathy, and creating healthier boundaries.
At the core, “doing the work” is about committing to personal growth and well-being. It’s not a one-time effort but a continuous self-reflection, learning, and application journey.
Individuals are more likely to foster creativity, productivity, and overall well-being by investing in mental health, thereby supporting their broader goals and aspirations.
For business owners, professionals, and anyone striving to reach their potential, this concept can significantly impact their personal and professional lives.
No matter where you are in life, whether it’s growing a business, raising a family, or pursuing personal dreams, doing mental health work lays a solid foundation for success.
What work will you be doing today?
Always moving forward,
Nick
PS – We’ve created a new self-assessment that you can download today to evaluate 12 key areas of your life. I’ve been doing it every week, and it’s eye-opening. I can see the progress I’m making and have even identified some glaringly deficient areas to focus on.
