Why is our first instinct almost always to resist change? Is it because of the perceived risks or fears associated with it? The contemplation of any life altering transition can be scary. But nothing is more satisfying than embracing our fears, embarking on a new adventure and emerging the other side a more confident and happier version of our previous self. Often, the reason comes down to a fear of stepping outside of our comfort zone, that little bubble that makes us feel safe and warm. The important thing to remember is that there is always a price for success and greater happiness, because achieving these things require the taking of big leaps, so, the question I ask you is, are you willing to pay for a better life?
The key is to focus on the things you stand to gain, rather than lose. Take a moment to remember a time in your past when you took action that was daunting at first but awarded you with a tremendous feeling of achievement and pride, for example that job interview that lead to a fantastic role or walking down the aisle of your wedding day, in those moments you were afraid, but you embraced your fear, took the plunge and afterward you felt wonderful! It’s about altering your mindset and always looking forward, focusing on the positive outcomes of taking the leap.
Here are a few tips to help you in your quest for change and a happier you:
1. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone
“As you move outside of your comfort zone, what was once the unknown and frightening becomes your new normal”
Robin S. Sharma
Prepare to step out of that comfort bubble. Try not to think about it too much, just take a deep breath, and do it! As Tony Robbins said ‘the path to success is to take massive determined action.’ It’s action that gets you to where you want to be, not thoughts. Life doesn’t change unless change is created. The more often you do this the easier it will become, do something that scares you every day!
2. Invest in yourself
Your growth starts from within. Do you really know ‘YOU’? What are you passionate about? If you have the answers to these questions, then your transition will be more straight forward. The best investment you can ever make is an investment in yourself. Learning never stops. If you want to live a vibrant life in your later years, it’s important to ensure your brain remains stimulated. Continually seek new ways to boost your knowledge and expand your horizons. Pursue a hobby, undergo some training, join a class or group. Remember, knowledge is power! And learning boosts your self-esteem and life-satisfaction.
3. Plan for change
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!”
Benjamin Franklin
You maximise your chances of success if you take time to plan. Crucially, the first step you must take is determining your ‘why’, why do you want to make these changes? How will they benefit and enhance your life? Write these down. Under each ‘why’ write an action plan. Consider any compromises you’ll need to make to achieve your goals. Factor these into your plan. Consider who or what these changes will affect, partners, family members for example, factor these in too and ensure you communicate with these people to ensure they understand and connect with your ‘why’ too.
Remember, the choices you make today will determine your tomorrow. The best way to avoid a life full of regrets is to embrace your fears and face your challenges with confidence. Many others have done it, so can you!
As your take away from this blog, what baby step are taking TODAY – NOW towards the changes you want to make? If I can be of service to you, do please contact me here.
