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Notes on Self Management: Few Ideas for Women’s Network

Why is self management important?
Self management is important because it has an impact on our personal growth and reputation as it also influences how we are perceived. It is also a broad concept that is reflected in how we manage the different aspects of our lives for example Time, Finances, Relationships, Wellness, Careers, Spiritually etc.

What sustains self management?
1. Constant and ongoing review of how you are doing in the different areas of your life.
 I sometimes use a self-rating scale: For example let’s look at your financial management currently; on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being poor, 3 average and 5 being excellent. Where would you rate your financial management?
2. Understand the behaviors that are contributing to your current self-rating. 
If for example you rated yourself as 2 (close to poor) Ask why? It could be there is no budget in place or even if there is a budget, maybe it is not adhered to. 
3. Set goals to improve your ratings in the different aspects of your life.
Where would you like to rate yourself in future, let’s say maybe a 5 (excellent).Again ask: how will I get there?Again using Financial Management as an example:What behaviors will get me to 5 (excellent financial management)?
4. Have an action plan 
Write it down, with specific and clear timelines. If comfortable share your action plan with someone who is supportive and ask them to keep you accountable. 
5. Seek help/coaching/ mentoring and guidance from an experienced friend/professional.
Be vulnerable about where you are and where you want to be. Vulnerability to trusted people is a strength that is important for personal growth. 
6. Establish a network of people that help you to sustain your self-management. 
I found that joining running groups helps in sustaining my wellness management, WhatsApp groups that discuss finances also help me to learn and improve in managing my finances. 
7. Read widely (books and articles on finances, spirituality, wellness, psychological self-help, leadership) and do not be afraid to ask questions. 
8. Be kind to yourself 
There are times when you will not manage things well! Forgive yourself, start again and move on. It is also okay to relax and take time off and get on the game again or even change your strategy.

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