Personal Development Is Not Optional

Maggie Williams Author

If you want more from life, it's time to work on becoming the person God created you to be. That starts with understanding your identity in Christ.

Personal development is not optional if you want more out of life.

Most people don't take time to regularly evaluate what’s working, what isn't, and what they would do differently. That leads to a life that’s stagnant, and yet most people seem completely surprised that their lives are flourishing. It’s a case of Einstein's law - “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results”.

Think about that for a minute. Haven't we all complained repeatedly about our circumstances, but we keep doing the very same things again and again that bring those same results? If we're honest, that's definitely the definition of insanity. Right?

Maybe it's eating foods that make you feel sick and bloated, gain weight, or give you a headache. Or, it could be not having enough time to do the things you really want to do, but you have time to keep up with what everyone else is doing. Maybe you complain that you can't save any money, but the Amazon driver knows you on a first-name basis.

I'm guilty, too. Let's get off the roller coaster and start making baby steps toward living with purpose. God created each of us on purpose for a purpose that's much greater than what we can do on our own.

Ephesians 2:10 tells us that, "We are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them".

He wants to partner with you and me, so we can make an impact on the world and leave a legacy that lasts beyond us.

Are you ready for a change?

If you aren't thrilled about how life turned out over the last 6-12 months, you have an opportunity to start making plans now to change your future. 

Each day you get up, you have an opportunity to make choices that will lead you either on a path that you chose or someone else will choose one for you. Ask yourself if there's a class that will help you get to where you want to be.

Here are 3 questions you should honestly ask yourself and write down the answers.

1. What is one thing I don't want to repeat?

2. What will it take to keep it from happening again?

3. How bad do I really want to change?

The people who succeed in life aren’t lucky. They have learned to go after what they want in life and are determined to make their dreams a reality. They see delays and obstacles as a challenge, which motivates them to work even harder.

One thing that has helped me in so many ways is being a reader. I have loved reading since I was in elementary school, reading Nancy Drew mysteries. Lol. 

In my early adult years, I read a lot of fiction books, but I’ve really gotten into personal development books in the last 10-12 years.

Many people equate reading with boring history books or novels in school, but instead, look at it as a way to unlock a world where anything is possible.

Getting started is simpler than you think. Check out some of my favorite books. The Bible is my absolute favorite, and I read it daily. The other books have helped me believe that I really can accomplish anything I put my mind to and to dream big because I serve a big God.

Do you want to improve your spiritual, physical, emotional, or mental health, build wealth, and have better relationships in 2026? This is a great place to start.

1. God's Design For Your Health And Wellness by Maggie Williams

2. Atomic Habits by James Clear

3. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

4. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

5. 5 Things Successful People Do Before 8 A.M. by Terrie Savelle Foy

6. Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

7. Retire Inspired by Chris Hogan

8. Be The Bridge by Latasha Morrison

9. Think, Learn, Succeed by Dr. Caroline Leaf

10. The Principles and Power of Vision by Dr. Myles Munroe

Think of an area where you have an interest, and find a book to learn more. Maybe it’s about cooking or decorating, getting organized, starting a business, or learning a new language.

It will open up a whole new world that you never knew existed. Go to your local library and ask the librarian for suggestions, and start improving your life today. You’ll be amazing at what you can do.

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in good health, just as your soul prospers."