How many self-help books are in print? There are too many to count. We all seem to be born with the idea that no matter who we are, or what station in life we’ve achieved, there is always the drive to do better. One of the speed bumps to this noble endeavor is that human beings are also great procrastinators.

Each day millions think about starting their own business, yet a very small percentage ever get beyond the thinking about it stage. Every day we make all sorts of reactionary decisions that not only affect us but those around us as well. Some of those decisions are well thought out while others are spur of the moment. In this post I’m going to ask you to consider making some simple decisions that could very well change your life for the better. Not only in 2013 but for the rest of your life.

Education:

I’m not suggesting going back to school but if you are able it’s not a bad idea. But most people are working and need to continue working to keep a roof over their heads. I’m suggesting that you use your TV watching time a little more wisely.

Seek out and read about your business or industry or learn more about what you’d like to do, if and when, you start your own business. If you will spend just 20 minutes each day reading something about your business or industry within one year you will know more than 75% of the people in that industry. How will you know you are reading enough? When you start finding the same information from different sources.

Relationships:

Unless you live alone, you have an obligation to the other people in your life. Your spouse, kids, partner, whoever is important in your life needs some of your time and attention. Learn to budget your time, to not only improve yourself, but be a better person to those around you. TV shows are great, but so is helping your kids with their homework. Little things go a long way in keeping a happy home. So pitch in and dry the supper dishes, pick up after yourself, put the cap back on the toothpaste.

Finances:

Unless a person is flat broke living on the street, every one of us can get by on less than we make. The best money advice is to, “Pay yourself first.” Ten percent of every dollar that comes into your home should be saved. Do this regularly and emergencies like a new starter for the car or a tire won’t be a problem. You don’t have to live that way forever. Put your money to work by contributing to an IRA or adding more to your 401(k). The rule of thumb is, “If — for a short time — you live like most people won’t; you can live the rest of your life like most people can’t.” Put your money to work. Each dollar should earn another dollar with no additional effort on your part.

Some Final Thoughts

This is the year you can change your life. You can become a more knowledgeable person, a more prosperous person and a flat out better person. I’m not talking about making a few New Year’s Resolutions that you’ll break before the end of the first month. I’m talking about looking at the inner you and making it better, not only for yourself, but also for those around you, and for society in general. You know who you want to be so why put off the transition any longer? The question is, are you willing to make the temporary sacrifice to become a better you?

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