Post by Susan Peabody on Aug 29, 2022 15:00:48 GMT -8
Changing
Susan Peabody
Change is a step-by-step process . . .
Action
If you listen closely when you unlock a safe, there comes a moment when you hear a click, and the tumblers finally fall into place. You can’t really see what’s happening, but your fingers move, and it all comes together. The beginning of change is like this. You do something different and finally something clicks. It is all very mysterious. You don’t really understand it, but when it happens you know, you immediately open the safe and take out your valuables. In this case, the valuables locked up in the safe are all the wonderful things you will become when you change. And the key to all this is taking action. You don’t just sit there and stare at the safe. You do something.
The Process of Changing
Changing includes both outer modifications of behavior and an inner shift in values and thinking patterns. The changes you make will be based on insights you’ve gained. When you are ready to change, you should do the easier things first to build up your confidence and then other changes will follow. Success builds upon success. Sometimes inner changes come from outer changes, and sometimes outer changes are a by-product of inner changes.
Suggestions
Recognize when you do something you don’t want to do. Dwell on this for as long as you need to. Continued awareness is the beginning of change.
Break down the changes you want to make into manageable pieces. You can make a list if you want.
Identify and make a list of alternative behaviors.
Substitute a good habit for a bad one.
Give yourself encouragement. Use affirmations.
Seek advice and help from others.
Join a support group.
Make a commitment to a friend or support group; verbalization can really help
Avoid companions who don’t support you. Find role models who exhibit the changes you want to make and observe them for as long as you need to.
Remember: Action leads to motivation leads to more action.
Don’t forget that changing is a process; it takes time. Be patient.
Avoid negative attitudes that inhibit change. The glass is half full not half empty.
Visualize the results; become goal oriented.
Work on building your self-esteem.
If you are a spiritual or religious person and believe in grace, divine intervention, or the power of prayer, then by all means pray for the energy and willingness to take action.
Don’t give up, even is change is slow in coming. If you continue to incorporate these techniques into your life, they will help you change.