Because when you have a good level of self-awareness, you know your abilities and can make the most of them. You are aware of your limitations, so you can set realistic goals. You understand what motivates you, which gives you energy even when facing difficulties. You know the kind of impact you have on others, so you can build and maintain relationships that benefit everyone. You can identify your emotions and feelings, allowing you to handle emotionally intense situations appropriately. You can face your fears, so you won't be intimidated by challenges. You are able to accept yourself with kindness and build trusting, close relationships.

Take a moment to think about your past experiences and current abilities. Write down your own strengths and future goals for improvement!

Roots = Your past experiences, achievements, personal resources

Trunk = Your current strengths and abilities

Crown (branches and leaves) = The skills and qualities you want to improve or develop

For short-term goals, you can ideally set a 90-day deadline – this helps keep your motivation high and your focus clear.

For longer-term goals, plan for around 2 to 3 years.

And for your main life goal or most defining vision, think in terms of 5 to 6 years.

Take a sheet of paper and write this question at the top:

“What are my three most important goals?”

You have 30 seconds to answer.

Don’t overthink it – the three goals that come to mind first are likely the ones that matter most to you right now, bubbling up from your subconscious.

90-day goals: What can you achieve in the next 3 months?
(e.g.: I will start a training course. I will apply to two jobs per week.)

2–3 year goals: Where do you see yourself in a few years?
(e.g.: I will have a stable job. I will grow professionally.)

5–6 year main goal: What is the bigger life goal you want to achieve?
(e.g.: I will start my own business. I will have a job that I love.)

This task is a conscious memory-preserving technique that supports personal development and helps you better cope with future challenges.

Take a break!

Autogenic training is a type of relaxation method that evolved from hypnosis research at the end of the 19th century.

Its novelty lies in the fact that it does not require a hypnotist. With regular practice, you can learn to trigger sensations of warmth and heaviness associated with deep relaxation anywhere and anytime. It helps calm your body and mind and can support you in solving specific problems.

Autogenic training is effective for muscle tension, respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal issues, circulatory and endocrine system problems. It also helps reduce general anxiety, irritability, and fatigue. It can be used to change how we react to pain, improve stress tolerance, and ease sleep disturbances.

To practice autogenic training, all you need is a comfortable position (sitting or lying down) and, if possible, a quiet space.

She breaks down the common belief that discomfort is something to avoid, and instead reframes it as an essential part of the learning process. Through examples and personal reflections, Caroline encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, uncertainty, and challenge as necessary steps toward development.

The talk emphasizes that:

The comfort zone is where routine, safety, and familiarity exist.

The growth zone lies just beyond it — this is where learning, creativity, and confidence are built.

Avoiding risk and discomfort may feel safe, but it also limits opportunity and progress.

Small, intentional actions can help us expand our comfort zone gradually and sustainably.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Tempus Public Foundation. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.