I love sharing my yoga journey and the things that have helped me along the way. Being a yoga teacher is new to me and I’ve been blessed to come across great resources. As a result, I wanted to share with you the five most influential things that have made me a better student, teacher, business person and yoga professional.

1. Invest in yourself.

It’s important to maintain your own practice no matter what. You have to continue to grow as a professional and student. I recommend that you take classes however you can, whether it be online, in-person or through a DVD. Try to do your best to attend yoga events, conferences and meet-ups, even if it’s one per quarter. Take advantage of e-books, webinars and online learning.

Photo credit: b2bmarketinginsider.com
Photo: b2bmarketinginsider

2. Surround yourself with like-minded people.

This goes beyond the yoga world — you need to be around people who will support your dreams and uplift you. You want positive vibes only.

3. Network

Collaborate with others and don’t try to do everything alone. Your network will grow when you partner with others and build together. By default, you will also learn new skills and grow your own brand. Remember your network equals your net worth.

4. Don’t be afraid to take risks.

I’ve learned to push myself to try new things, despite the fear of rejection. Yes, rejection hurts, but the sooner you get the nos out of the way, the quicker you will get to your yeses. I’ve also learned to think outside of the box and to go where there is no market or opportunity and create my own. I’m definitely starting to see the payoff.

Photo source: yogajournal.com
Photo: YogaJournal

5. Have fun

Don’t focus so much on the destination that you don’t enjoy the journey. Too many times I kept my head in the sand and didn’t come up for air – then I look back and wonder: What the heck did I do? Where did the time go? Now that I’ve embarked on a new phase in life and a new business, I don’t want to repeat those same mistakes. I’m enjoying every moment, the good and the bad. I’m joyful and much more grateful. I can accept things as they are and how they come to me. I’m living in the moment and not in the world of what-ifs and regrets.

Do you have any tips to add? What has helped to make you a better professional? Comment below!

READ NEXT: Running: How to start hitting the pavement seamlessly