We all have an idea of our highest selves and an image of who we aspire to become. And instead of steadily changing things one step at a time to become that person, we feel the need to rush and try to change everything at once. As a result, we often find ourselves back in the same position we started when we had the idea of transformation.
Change can be difficult in all aspects, but it doesn’t have to be if you take small steps each day. As they say, true change happens when you change the small things that you do daily.
Remember, the only thing that is constant in our lives is change. If you have an idea of who you aspire to be, it is necessary to let go of the patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you or your goals for growth. In other words, we cannot become what we want to be by remaining what we are.
Here are some ways to help you through the transformation process:
Accept That Changes Will Need to Be Made
Since change is difficult for most people, it’s often hard to accept that changes need to occur to meet goals. If I want to lose weight, continuing to make poor food choices doesn’t align with my stated goal. But boy, I sure wish it did. But it doesn’t and I need to accept that fact and formulate a healthier, sustainable dietary plan that will help me reach my goal.
Take Inventory of Your Current Habits
What habits do you have that supports your goals? What about habits that don’t support your goals? Be honest with yourself about what is working for you and what is working against you. You can only create an effective plan when you take an honest look at your daily habits.
Keep Things Simple
If you have identified that you tend to eat junk food late at night and you are trying to lose weight, make small changes at first. Instead of having candy or ice cream, have a piece of fruit. Slowly make the changes, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
Keeping it simple helps us stay focused on one thing at a time and eventually complete all of our personal goals. Life is complicated enough, so use simplicity wherever and whenever you can. The goal is to change slowly over time to make these changes stick. As they say, slow and steady wins the race.
Establish a New Routine
Create a new routine that include the changes to your daily habits. Remember, you don’t have to change everything at once. You can gradually make changes and add them to your routine. And if you have bad day and don’t stick to your new habits, it’s okay. Forgive yourself and move on. Today is a new day and you can get back at it.
To feel good about changes we are trying to make in our life, we have to accept that it is a process. And sometimes it is a long one and it is often not linear. It is okay to fall back into old patterns or routines every now and again. Just don’t stay there.
