Change is inevitable. We have all heard this saying, but is it true?
People need a reason to change. It has to be something internal. Most of the time, it happens as a result of an experience. The experience can be anything from meeting or losing someone you love, to watching a random commercial on television. It’s not always the light bulb moment either. Usually it is a series of events that leads up to the desire to change. Whatever the reason, it is personal and has to be when a person is ready to change.
When it comes to changing for the better, it usually takes either time or money or even both. That is hard to not only make a commitment to change something, but to also give up time and/or money in the process. If it is really worth it to you, you will do it. Other things like fearing change or failure also get in the way. Remember, mind over matter (as if it is that easy). Most likely, it won’t be easy. Nothing worth having ever comes easy (the mom in the movie Greater actually says this too). It will likely be uncomfortable at the least and tire you out, but stick with it. Whatever the change may be, determine whether it is really worth it. Remind yourself that you are only human and WILL make mistakes which will be especially tough for perfectionists.
There are many actions that I’ve found to help overcome fears, find motivation, and prioritize in order to accomplish what you set out to do.
- Determine the purpose. Why are you making this change? Why is it important? Keep in mind there will always be reasons to quit. However, there are better reasons to stick with it. For example, if your goal is to save money, determine what you are saving for. Keep your eye on the prize.
- Be organized. Determine what it will take to accomplish your goal. Make a plan. Think about when, where, how, etc. to do it. Sort out the logistics. If your goal is to read more, set aside a time that you will read and then think about where you will have the most privacy.
- Have a support group. You may not want to tell the world what you want to change and in that case, have a few family members or friends that you can tell. Many times we do not want to tell anyone due to fear of failing and being embarrassed. We don’t need anyone pointing out that we messed up on our goal. Tell people you trust and that will encourage and support you. This will help you be accountable too. If your goal is to eat healthier, tell you close friends and family. They will be more encouraging and less judgmental. They’ll eat healthier with you or pick better places to go out to eat.
- Take small steps. Do not judge dive in, unless that works better for you. When I decided to go back to college, I went all in. I took 15 hours my first semester back. Everyone told me to start small, but I knew what I wanted and was completely ready to take that giant step.
- Following through is one of the hardest parts. If you remember to do all the above, it will make it a lot easier for you. Keep in mind that you will mess up. That’s normal. Revisit why you started and talk to your biggest supporters. Do not let anyone bring you down. I can promise you, there will be people that do not want you to succeed.
