"Men are anxious to improve their circumstances, but are unwilling to improve themselves; they therefore remain bound." ​- James Allen, As a Man Thinketh

True success—be it in finances, relationships, career, or health—starts with self-improvement. Before reaping these rewards, you have to address internal barriers that foster cycles of self-sabotage and perpetuate failure. By overcoming these limitations, you pave the way for genuine and lasting success in all areas of life - What’s really keeping you from reaching your full potential?

1. Stay in Integrity - This is the cornerstone of self-respect and confidence. Make a habit of doing what you say you will do (outwardly and inwardly). Each time you follow through on a promise, big or small, you reinforce your own sense of reliability and build trust with others.
2. Do the Hard Work - Instead of masking symptoms of depression and anxiety with temporary fixes, take a deeper look at what they might be indicating about your life and mental health. These feelings can be signs pointing to unresolved issues or unmet needs that require your attention and honesty before you'll be capable of hitting that next level in life.
3. Stop Living in the Past - If you’ve worked hard to grow and improve, don’t let negotiations with your past self undermine your progress. You’re not the person you used to be; you’ve leveled up. Commit to maintaining the standards you’ve set for yourself and resist sliding back into old, destructive habits.
4. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences - The people around you have a profound impact on your personal development. If you’re lacking a supportive community, now is the time to change that. Consider joining groups like the Iron Council to connect with like-minded men who are committed to personal growth and excellence.
5. Don't Rule Out Therapy - If past traumas or persistent psychological barriers are hindering your progress, there’s no shame in seeking help. Therapy can be a transformative tool, especially with a professional who understands the unique challenges faced by men like you.