Self Development: The Everyday Habit That Keeps Me Ahead of the Game
Here’s the thing about self-development: it’s not just for the yogis, the self-help junkies, or the blokes with podcasts about “getting up at 5am to crush life.” It’s for anyone who wants to show up better. As a human. As a business owner. As someone who doesn’t want to be left behind while the world’s shifting quicker than the latest trend.
For me, self-development isn’t optional—it’s part of the job. It weaves its way into everything: personal growth, mental health, the way I lead, how I support the team, and how I help our clients keep pushing forward. It’s what keeps me steady, switched on, and always a step ahead of the curve (because let’s be real, the curve keeps shifting faster than your inbox on a Monday morning).
Do I have it all figured out? Not yet. But I stay curious—and that helps. I treat my brain like a muscle that needs regular attention. Sometimes it’s a gentle stretch, sometimes it’s a full-on rethink. But either way, I show up for it.
Here’s What That Looks Like
Podcasts – Always playing in the background, whether I’m working, unwinding, or catching up on emails. I listen to everything from business and mindset to culture and social change—because you never know where the next insight will come from.
Press releases & platforms – I genuinely enjoy digging into what’s coming out of the world’s big players, giving me all the juicy intel I need to leverage and level up. From Social Media Examiner to Harvard Business Review, I read to understand, to forecast, and to spark new ideas—not just for me, but for our clients too.
Books, books, books – I’ve made a habit of ordering one new book a month (Amazon loves me). Usually something that helps me understand emerging tech, shifting consumer behaviours, leadership, or marketing trends.These books help me connect the dots, challenge my thinking, and stay informed to see what’s coming before it arrives—and that means you don’t have to scramble. I do the heavy lifting.
Want to know what I’m reading right now?
Let Them Theory – Mel Robbins
A punchy reminder to stop people-pleasing. Let them judge, let them walk—let them. You focus on doing you. Simple, powerful, and freeing.
Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life – Roxie Nafousi
Part mindset, part action plan—this one’s about getting clear on what you want, doing the inner work, and backing it up with bold moves.
Dare to Lead – Brené Brown
A game-changer for anyone in business or leadership. Vulnerability, courage, and leading with heart—without losing your edge.
Here’s the raw truth: If you run a business and you're not actively developing yourself, your mindset, or your knowledge, you’re gambling. Things move fast. Algorithms change. People's habits shift. One minute your audience is vibing with you, the next they’re ghosting harder than a bad date. Staying ahead isn’t luck—it’s work.
That’s why I make space for this stuff. Because when I grow, our clients grow. I stay on top of the trends, the tools, and the bigger conversations—so they don’t have to.
Now It’s Your Turn
If you’ve been thinking about investing a bit more into your own development, this is your nudge. Read something new. Sign up for something that scares you a little. Tune into a podcast that stretches your perspective. Or let me keep doing the legwork and I’ll share the gold as I go.
And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s okay too. There are plenty of little ways to dip your toe in.
Keep reading blogs like this one (obviously 😉), or head over to the Creative Little Soul blog where you’ll find more on marketing, mindset, and growing your business with heart and hustle. Sign up for our newsletter if you want little doses of inspiration, tips, and ideas landing straight in your inbox. I also share thoughts on LinkedIn if you’re more of a scroller.
And if there’s something you’re curious about—whether it’s a trend, tool, or challenge you’re facing—don’t be shy. Shoot me a message or an email. I’m always happy to rummage through the archives of my brain and send something useful your way.
It doesn’t have to be overwhelming or done alone. Take it at your own pace, and remember, it’s all about showing up a little better than yesterday.
Wrapping It Up
Self-development isn’t some unattainable goal reserved for a select few. It’s a continuous, messy, rewarding process that helps us grow in every part of life. Whether it’s boosting your mindset, sharpening your skills, or simply staying curious, every little step counts.
By investing in yourself, you’re not just showing up better for your business or clients—you’re showing up better for you. And that’s always worth it.
So here’s to doing the work, staying curious, and growing—one small win at a time!