Most people don’t like change…they resist it or fight it because they find comfort in the familiar – and change is anything but familiar. Whether we like it or not, change is happening all around us. Sometimes it’s the result of our choices or consequences. Sometimes it comes out of nowhere and smacks us upside the head. Then there are times we just get that feeling, and wonder… is it time for a change? So how do you know for sure? The thing is there is uncertainty with everything. So to know for certain, how about you first make it easy for yourself and answer these five questions that will help in determining if change is something you need to embrace.
1Will I be Unhappy in the Long Run? The thing to know is whether change is something that will be able to make your life more fulfilling or interesting. It isn’t always easy to make that kind of choice but sometimes all that you need is a nudge to get that kind of empowering decision-making. Will it result in less stress or pain? That should be one of your main concerns and focus. Also look into how you can get a deeper sense of peace and happiness if you make that kind of move. But if you are considering making this change as a way to escape something that you should face then that isn’t the right idea to work around.To answer these questions, spend time thinking about what you want from life. What kind of life do you want to create? What kind of person do you want to become? What are your beliefs, standards and values? And what are some of your dreams? Remember that your life should bring you joy. If you feel like you’re existing, surviving or “doing time,” perhaps a change is in order. But don’t change for change’s sake alone. Use change constructively to build and create the kind of life you want to live.
2Will making a Change Support your Goals?
Once you’ve figured out what kind of life you want to live you can start identifying some of your short-term, medium, and long-term goals. This is a solid way to see where you are heading. Achieving goals takes action – action that will probably require you to make some changes. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone when the action you’re taking results in a better life. And remember, as your life changes your goals might, too. Growth is a process. So be ready to adjust your goals. They can progress as you are going to in life.
3 Do I Really Want This?If you’re thinking about making a change make sure it’s a change that YOU want for your life. As a general rule of thumb, don’t make a change just to please someone else. Don’t live your life to please other people. Live your life.
Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other people. Avoid comparing or competing. Work on improving your life and being a better person today than you were yesterday. You’re only competition is with yourself. Only you can make your life better so don’t look at your dependence on other factors. Remember to just focus on your life and progress. Be proud and grateful of your achievements.
4Will this Change Make My Life Better? Ask yourself if making a change will improve your life in some way. Whether the change is big or small, it should make your life better, easier, less stressful, happier or more pleasant. It does not even have to be monetary. The change is something that will come to you and make you feel more fulfilled when done the right way.
5Is Fear Holding You Back? First things first-it’s okay to feel afraid, it isn’t okay to be controlled by fear. Lean into your fear and face whatever is giving you butterflies. Take a deep breath and move forward courageously. Once you’ve done the thing, you’ll be stronger and at peace. Know that it does not have to be sudden but anything which is nerve wrecking and is taking time, it will eventually lead you to gaining what you want- a peace of mind.
Change is a part of life – some is wanted and some is unwanted. Regardless, you have the choice to take charge and do your best to create the kind of life you want to live. If you choose to do nothing, you’ll watch life pass you by from the sidelines; you’ll never really feel fulfilled or content. We’re either moving forward or slipping backwards. So choose to embrace change and grow. Take charge of change to live your best life; don’t let change take charge of you.
