Have you ever really asked yourself how right you are about the things you believe in? Are the values ​​you live by correct? Is your lifestyle “within the bounds of normal”? And what is normal today?

In the world we live in, full of all kinds of challenges everywhere, “fake” content and superficial personalities, great appetites for easy money, desires for prestige, attention and dominance, we often ask ourselves such questions. We also know that many sectors in the country we live in are inadequate, and time, with all the innovations, the internet and the “new normals”, is not always in our favor. Although reality may seem bleak, there is a glimmer of hope that things can improve. But the question that remains is: where do we start?

Change starts at the micro level. The first step towards improving the world around us begins with ourselves. We need to make an honest and constructive critical review of our own aspects of seeing life, to reexamine our consciousness, to open ourselves to new horizons and perspectives. This requires investing effort in personal development, information and education. It does not always have to be formal, it can also be informal – by reading useful materials, attending trainings, or simply by following positive examples no matter how far away, by listening to inspiring people who bring change.

It is time to choose quality content. In the information age, we are often exposed to third-rate content – ​​endless scrolling on social networks, online games, watching Turkish series, reality shows that have no real value, and we do not have enough time for ourselves, for our children, for our loved ones. It is time to consciously direct our attention to useful and educational information. This choice is a responsibility that will bring improvement in our everyday lives. Why not replace the time spent aimlessly scrolling with reading personal development books, listening to lectures, or exploring new hobbies?

Raising your mindset requires time invested in yourself. Improving society is not an individual process – it is a collective obligation. But each individual can contribute by bringing kindness, respect, and empathy into everyday interactions. We need to build a culture of support, understanding, sharing the right values, and positive role models. A small change in attitude or behavior can have a big impact on the people around us.

Optimism must still exist. It is a characteristic of people with high emotional intelligence and it is learned. With such small but significant steps, we can build the path to a brighter future. It is important to believe that change is possible, to believe in ourselves and in the people around us. The sun of hope will rise, but first we need to make room in our lives for positive changes. This will bring not only individual satisfaction, but also collective improvement of society.

Remember, the path to improvement begins with a small step – with ourselves. It is time to make a choice. It is time to start.

Prof. Dr. Gjorgina Qimova

Professor at the International Slavic University — Sveti Nikole