One of my favorite quotes is, Change is inevitable…Growth is optional…Why not take the option?
Let’s face it behavioral change is not the easiest nor the most embraced concept for most. We are creatures of habit and most of all we like to stay in our “safe, sane, and secure” world. This depends, of course, on our past programming and conditioning, our willingness to adapt, and our emotional resilience.
If we were “taught” that the world is a scary place and caution must be used at every turn chances are we’re going to look to the familiar and avoid risks. In reality, it takes more energy in resisting change than it does to embrace it.
In a seminar I asked the audience to press their hands together, against the wall or against a partner. I said if they didn’t have any physical restrictions to keep on pressing. Then I finally said, “Okay! Let go!”
I asked them which was more difficult…pressing against the object or releasing it?
The answer was obvious. Their necks, shoulders, hands, or arms could be tense and uncomfortable and their mood could have changed, as well. It serves as a metaphor for our lives.
Change is the only constant in life and when we resist it mentally and psychologically, we create nothing new. Ultimately, without change, things stay the same, will stagnate and die. We can apply this to an idea, a desire, wish, goal or evolving physically, socially, mentally, or spiritually. Behavioral change is crucial for personal development whether it is adopting healthier lifestyle choices, improving communication skills, or enhancing emotional intelligence, changing behaviors allows individuals to unlock their potential and achieve their life goals.
Is there something in your life that you’d like to change?
