(A 3 minute, 30 second read)
Change.
How do you respond to the call or invitation to make a change in your life?
Perhaps you have heard the oft repeated quote of Henry David Thoreau regarding this matter.
Things do not change; we change.
A rather effective leader in the fight for equal rights for everyone, was King Whitney, Jr. who wrote,
Change has a considerable psychological impact on the human mind. To the fearful it is threatening because it means that things may get worse. To the hopeful it is encouraging because things may get better. To the confident it is inspiring because the challenge exists to make things better.
Change seems to be one of those things people tend to love or hate.
- Does our response depend on the source of the suggested change…it’s “their” idea vs. “my” idea?
- Does it depend on how much we care about whatever is being “left behind”?
- Does it depend on how we think about change?
What one thing would you like to change?
I invite you to take a minute with this question: What one thing would you like to change?
Where would a change in your life bring you greater freedom, peace, joy, success, influence, results…?
Name it:
Now, which of the following best describes your thinking about this journey of change? Fearful, hopeful, or confident?
Dig a little deeper; if…
- Fearful – What is creating this fear within you about making that specific change?
- Hopeful – How does the thought of making that change encourage you?
- Confident – What gives you faith to believe the best is yet to be, once you make the change?
How will that change happen?
The change I’m asking you to think about is within your authority to bring about; it is about your life. Making the change will release you to greater success and influence…change within your thinking, behavior, performance.
How do we move from here to there?
Here are four steps associated with The Journey of Change. See if they make sense to you…
1. Desire
To me this is more than a simple wish; it is that longing, craving, or yearning. Think chocolate…Snickers. Desire is the beginning place.
What if we lack the desire to make this change?
Get ready for desperation. Only when desperation (pain) exceeds resistance will we move forward, laying aside something “old” for something “new”…are you desperate, yet?
Can you imagine the consequences if you don’t make this change?
Desire fueled by desperation is enhanced by understanding. When we comprehend the benefits of making a change, our desire to make the change will increase.
Can you imagine the reward once you complete this change?
Desire is the beginning place for change. Desperation and understanding help develop an action-oriented desire.
2. Discipline
What comes to your mind with the word “discipline”?
In this context, discipline is about “doing”; a systematic method to getting something done.
With adequate desire to make a “change” we must take action; discipline gives us a path or framework for victory. Often what we need is a commitment to consistency to achieve the desired outcome.
What must you do to arrive at your goal?
What action is so doable it is laughable; meaning you response to the action step is: “I can do that!”
Desire leads to doing.
3. Determination
Significant change in behavior must be supported by determination. Opposition is part of the journey.
Old habits, old ways of thinking, comfort zones, fears, doubt, and natural resistance rise up to defeat The Journey of Change. Our commitment of will and clarity on why supports the resolve to see it through.
4. Delight
The personal development, Journey of Change begins with some level of desperation and understanding; we recognize the need.
Desire moves us to Doing; Doing is supported by Determination – until the new behavior becomes a delight. Positive change brings its own reward, which includes enjoyment and pleasure. (Imagine eating chocolate…Snickers.)
The Journey of Change moves us from fear and resistance to accomplishment and delight including the positive rewards of growth!
Where are you on the Journey of Change?
Which of the 3 D’s do you need? Desire? Discipline? Determination?
What change have you made in the past that brings you delight today?
Please feel free to forward…
What do you think…comment below; I’d love to hear from you.
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