Understanding These 6 Things Made Me Better Than Yesterday
Written by Michelle Ong | January 25, 2025
Some shifts don’t happen overnight—they unfold quietly, one honest realization at a time.
There was a low period when I felt stuck and unhappy—my life wasn’t moving the way I hoped.
I chanced upon this:
“We cannot become what we want by remaining what we are.” —Max DePree
And it got me thinking hard.
Over the past few years, I’ve slowly learned what that means in practice.
Here are six lessons that helped me grow into a better version of myself.
1. Taking a Chance Creates Possibilities
For years, I let past failures shape what I thought I was capable of.
I stayed in my comfort zone because it felt safe.
But it was actually holding me back.
I always thought I had little musical talent.
But few years ago, I decided to challenge myself to pick up the ukulele.
I wasn’t great at first, but I slowly got the hang of it.
That tiny “why not?” moment opened the door to a hobby I genuinely enjoy.
Growth starts with giving yourself permission to try.
You might be surprised by what you gain.
2. Life Isn’t Always Black & White
I grew up believing work had to come before play.
That structure helped me in some ways—but also boxed me into thinking joy and productivity couldn’t coexist.
Over time, I learned they actually fuel each other.
When you enjoy what you do, you show up better.
And when you allow small pockets of joy into your workdays, everything feels lighter.
Work and play can overlap.
And when they do, life feels a lot more fulfilling.
💡Here’s a practical guide to stop overthinking.
4. What Truly Matters Can’t Wait
“Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.” – Napoleon Hill
For a long time, I prioritised work and money over relationships.
I kept telling myself there would be time “later.”
But memento mori reminds me: later isn’t guaranteed.
Now I make time for weekly family moments—even simple things like shared meals or game nights.
They bring a kind of joy that nothing else can replace.
Life becomes meaningful when we choose what matters most—and choose it consistently.
5. Health Really Is Wealth
I disliked exercise growing up.
That led to poor health, low energy, and even lower confidence.
But prioritising my health changed everything—from my mindset to my daily mood.
Daily movement helped me feel stronger, clearer, and more grounded.
Now, it’s not about fitness goals—it’s about feeling alive and capable.
A healthy body supports a healthy life.
💡Discover ways to build self-discipline.
6. Consistency Is the Real Game-Changer
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier
Hard work matters, but consistency holds everything together—like the hub that keeps all the spokes aligned.
Whether it’s exercising, learning, writing, or improving your habits, small repeated efforts create momentum.
That’s where the real transformation happens.
It’s rarely about intensity. It’s about showing up—again and again.
💡Learn how to simplify your days.
Final Thoughts
“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama
Transformation doesn’t require dramatic changes—it often begins with small mindset shifts repeated over time.
These six lessons shaped who I am today, and I hope they spark something for you too.
Here’s to becoming just a little better than yesterday.
💡Read life-changing habits I’ve picked up.
🌱 Reader Reflection
Which of these six lessons resonates most with you—and why? What’s one small shift you can start making this week?
