Most of us would like to be a better version of ourselves in some way. Maybe by losing a few pounds, being better at work, being kinder or a better family member – you know what I am talking about.

The first thing we need to do is choose to be better. Being a better version of ourselves is completely within our grasp at all times. There is no magic formula and we all have complete control over our lives.

On a very basic level, we are programmed to avoid pain and be drawn to pleasure.

If the pain of saying no to a slice of apple tart is greater than the long-term goal of losing weight, we will take the apple tart every time. But we can retrain ourselves by focusing on the positives.

It’s the same at work. If you feel unmotivated or bored or stuck at work, do you just say: “Well, that’s work isn’t it?”

Caroline Murphy is owner of West Cork Eggs, Rosscarbery, Co Cork. \ Donal O'Leary

Is it? No. By choosing to have a better work life you must change what you are doing. After all, if you keep doing the same things you have always done, you will continue to get the same results.

We live much of our lives by the habits we have formed – some from as early as our childhoods. But we owe it to ourselves and loved ones to be the best version of ourselves we can be. By deciding where we would like to make changes and committing to that choice, we totally have the power to do so. We just have to believe we can and – remember – sometimes we can’t do it by ourselves. Ask for help and support if necessary.

To be a better you, there are simple steps you can take:

1 Choose to be a better version of yourself and commit to that choice.

2 Take small steps to get there. Identify the small, manageable things you can do today to become the better you.

3 Remember to ask for help if you need it.

4 Don’t beat yourself up if you have an off day – you are human and we all have them. Think of the toddler learning to walk – if they take a step and fall down, they don’t just give up and say: “That’s it, I’m not doing that anymore!” They dust themselves off and try again. So be that toddler and keep going!