You’ve probably heard the phrase “be the best version of yourself” more times than you can count. I know I have. But recently, I stopped to really think about what that actually means for me—not in some vague, inspirational way, but in a practical, personal sense.
To figure it out, I had to start with the opposite. I asked myself: what does it look like when I’m not being the best version of me? So I made a list. I thought about the food I eat, how I take care of myself, whether I’m moving my body, what my daily routine looks like, the people I’m spending time with, and how all those things affect my energy and mindset.
Then I did something that felt a little vulnerable: I asked people close to me for their perspective. How do I show up when I’m at my best? How about when I’m not? Their insights helped me see patterns I hadn’t noticed before.
This isn’t about being perfect. I don’t believe in that kind of pressure. But I do know I feel better when I’m more often living in that “best version” zone. And now, when I feel myself slipping—whether it’s from poor choices, lack of self-care, or just being around draining energy—I can recognize it and, if I choose to, shift things.
I invite you to try it. Make your own list. Notice what helps you feel your best and what pulls you away from that version of yourself. It’s a simple exercise, but it might just give you the clarity and control you didn’t know you needed. Let me know how it goes. I’d really love to hear what you discover.
