When you get your paycheck at the end of the month, what’s the first couple of things you do? You probably get started on the bills and rent and send some over to your parents while the rest goes into savings.  

While this is definitely the right way to go about it, strictly in terms of saving, investing in yourself can take you farther ahead. If you want to rise beyond the person you are right now and witness some actual changes, then you have to invest time and money in yourself!  

If this was such a glorious idea, then why don’t more people do it? And you’re not wrong to wonder about this. Most people believe that investing time and money in oneself  can’t possibly be a way to ‘success’.  

To prove this train of thought wrong, here are some ways to invest in YOU that can help you out in the long term and even give you a little push forward.   

 1. Developing Professional and Interpersonal Skills  

Your job proficiency and technical skills may be far superior than those around you. But how can that be if you’re better at your job? The difference is that having the technical skills can only get you so far. Real progress comes in when you display professional and interpersonal competence.  

Professional and interpersonal skills include those traits that people at the workplace must possess in addition to the technical know-hows of a job. If you’re confident about the way you do your job, then all you need to brush up on are professional and interpersonal skills.  

Communication falls under this category. No matter what position you’re at, communication will always be a vital skill that you’ll require. Any form of interaction between your subordinates, superiors, and yourself should always respect professional boundaries and be concise and clear. Remember that proper communication is a reflection of your professionalism as well!  

Take some time out to enhance your character. To make yourself stand out amongst a crowd of employees, brushing up on such abilities, like working just as well under pressure, exhibiting leadership qualities, or self-motivation, is definitely worth your time and will push you forward.  

 2. Generic Versus Specific 

We’ve discussed how you can invest time. However, here is how you’re supposed to put money to good use. The real return on investment is when you take a risk. And by this, we mean that you should focus on things that can further help you attain professional and interpersonal growth.  

Competition nowadays is only rising and all your coworkers are trying to make real progress just like you. But what can really set you apart is investing money in developing your skills.  

If there’s a class in town about how to lead people in a business, go for that class. If a website tests your conflict resolution at the cost of a few dollars a month, then don’t even think twice.   

Here is why you need to take that extra step and not rely on generic information and free YouTube videos: EVERYONE HAS ACCESS TO THEM!  

If everyone can grab hold of something, then remember that it’s basic. You need to take it up a notch to be able to overtake your coworkers and move forward. And the way to do that is by allowing yourself to learn and implement more.  

So take a chance on yourself and make some real progress. Invest your own time and money in yourself and you’ll definitely start seeing a difference. It isn’t easy with everyone competing for the same thing, but the secret is to know which area you need to work on and allocate the time and effort to make it happen!

Do you want to learn how to accelerate your development and progress in life? Investing in yourself is extremely important and we can help you to find a way. Check out the microlearning section on our site.  

Also, here are 3 Methods successful women follow to keep their career on track