As creatures of habit there are few among us who don’t struggle with the concept of change. But, without change, there can be no growth and no improvement. Stagnation is not a desirable state of being.
There are many opportunities in any given week to accept change…to make the conscious decision to choose an alternative…to decide that where we are is no longer where we desire most to be. There are more than enough challenges in the choice of change. Far more daunting is enforced change…an unplanned switch in direction…an unexpected refinement of thought process or opinion.
Adjustment is never easy. Refinement hurts. Diversification is difficult. Despite that, change is inevitable.
The switch may not be dramatic and obvious. In fact it may be almost imperceptible. But it is happening and it will continue to happen.
Given that, it makes sense to avoid the struggle and embrace change…accept the opportunity to learn and grow.
That’s where common sense is needed most. The call to action is a call to self-improvement not self-destruction. It’s essential that we choose to change up not change down. Often the head and the heart can be in conflict. Passion and emotion can combine in an attempt to defeat rationality and wisdom. Our inner selves know the difference even though there are times we would seek to deny the things we know to be truths.
It’s certain that if we continue doing the things we have always done and thinking the things we have always thought – all the while expecting change and improvement – then we will be bitterly disappointed.
Energy spent looking over our shoulders is energy wasted. The lessons learned from past mistakes must be carried forward to meet new challenges and opportunities.
The future can be as exciting and fulfilling as we want it to be. But tomorrow starts with today and the changes we make.
Gary Bentley Counselling 