Creating change is hard. We believe the desire to change will make things happen. Many times this doesn't work. How often have you tried to start a diet or exercise regime, quit smoking, get organized?
It is rare to find total satifaction and contentment with the status of our lives. Wanting different circumstances isn't wrong. We are not failures for struggling to change. But there is an important component we must have before transformation can occur.
To make lasting changes, we need to understand why the condition exists in our life. Our weight/lack of exercise/smoking/clutter (insert your favorite vice here) is a part of our life to serve a purpose. It satisfies a need in us...even if that is the last thing we want to hear.
A common misconception tells us we are wrong or somehow weak for not being able to rid ourselves of some situation. This misconception hinders our progress toward change. By understanding how we create our life and what purpose our habits serve can open us up to change.
Once we accept that which we want to be rid of, we are free of its hold. This is truly the hardest part of change. Embracing ourselves the way we are. Accepting that we are right where we need to be right now.
Everything that exists in our life is there for a purpose. When we push it away or fight against it, it clings to us. They are valuable lessons about who we are and what we need to realize from our lives.
The more awareness we bring to understanding the purpose of our struggle the more control we have around implementing a new lifestyle. We are free to create new means of dealing with situations that plague us.
Life is not going to change the lessons it brings to us. There will always be chocolate cake, a stressor, a reason not to exercise. If you understand how and why you react to it, you can choose a healthier reaction. The control of your reaction becomes yours.
True changes begins within. Until you create a new appreciation for who you are, attempts to change your external circumstances are difficult at best.
Set yourself up for success. Create a plan to be successful in dealing with your vices. Get support in making change.
Good luck as you embark on this season of change and renewal. Trust you are where you need to be and change is possible through awareness, familiarity and support.
Happy New Year!
Theresa
