"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude."
- Maya Angelou
Life is full of change. Do you embrace it? Most of us do not. The problem is one of the things you can depend on is change. I have been known for resisting change. It takes me a long time to “jump on the bus.” The problem is that life can be more difficult resisting change than going with the flow.
For example, twelve years ago, my life completely changed. I willingly agreed to move to Fresno after my mom’s death to take over the family business. I struggled with that decision. I was leaving friends, my support group, the job I loved, and my comfort zone. I was moving into my grandparent's house and had to give away all my furniture. I had just lost my mom, and I felt like I lost a part of myself.
The first two years I lived in Fresno were challenging. I was not happy; I cried every day going to work and was relieved when I got home, and I ate my way through my depression. I did find joy in my church and the friends I made there. I was miserable most of the time and wanted to return to Merced, to my comfort zone and where I knew I was loved.
One evening, I spent a couple of hours writing in my journal and found that I would continue to be miserable unless I changed my thoughts and actions. I woke up the next morning, ready for the day. I committed to going to work with a smile and made changes to improve my life.
I wrote out all my blessings since I moved to Fresno. There are many blessings; I wasn’t aware of how much I had to be thankful for. God has blessed me in many ways; I just had to accept my situation and run with it. I am happier in Fresno than I have been anywhere else!
I have a great and supportive group of friends, I have a beautiful home, I belong to a fantastic church, and I like who I have become. None of those things would have happened if I stayed in Merced.
Even though moving to Fresno was a change for the best, I still fight against change. I get comfortable with life and want it to remain the same. I am challenging myself to embrace change and move on. Now, the real test: Will I do it?
Making personal change involves a combination of introspection, planning, and action. Here are some tools and strategies that can support personal transformation:
1. Goal-Setting Tools: Tools like planners, goal-setting apps, or digital calendars can help you define and track your objectives. Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals is crucial for clarity and motivation.
2. Habit Trackers: Habit tracking apps or physical journals can help you monitor your progress toward establishing or breaking new habits. Seeing your progress visually can be a powerful motivator.
3. Self-Help Books and Resources: Books, podcasts, and online courses on personal development can provide insights and strategies for change. Topics might include time management, self-discipline, mindfulness, or specific skills you want to develop.
4. Meditation and Mindfulness Apps: Regular meditation and mindfulness practices can improve mental clarity, emotional regulation, and stress management, supporting overall personal growth.
5. Fitness Trackers: If your change involves physical health, fitness trackers or health monitoring apps can help you keep track of your exercise, diet, and sleep patterns.
6. Financial Planning Tools: For financial goals, budgeting apps and financial planning software can help you manage your finances more effectively, track spending, and save money.
7. Journaling: Keeping a journal allows you to reflect on your day, monitor your progress, and clarify your thoughts and feelings. This can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and motivation.
8. Online Communities and Support Groups: Joining online forums or social media groups focused on personal development or specific interests can provide support, accountability, and inspiration.
9. Time Management Tools: Apps and software that help with time management, such as Pomodoro timers or project management tools, can increase productivity and help you allocate time to your priorities.
10. Personal Development Workshops and Seminars: Attending workshops or seminars can provide new skills, insights, and motivation to pursue your personal change goals. These can be in-person or online.
11. Coaching and Therapy: Working with a coach or therapist can provide personalized guidance, accountability, and support. They can help you identify obstacles, develop strategies, and maintain focus on your goals.
12. Networking and Mentorship: Building relationships with individuals who inspire you or have achieved what you aspire to can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and advice.
I must share that the tool I use most often is my faith. With prayer and giving my frustrations and rebelliousness to God, things change, and I am much happier. I have a special place where I sit before the Lord, share my blessings and thankfulness with Him, and ask for help.
Implementing personal change is a journey that requires commitment, patience, and resilience. Utilizing a combination of these tools can provide the structure, motivation, and support needed to achieve lasting change.
I encourage you to see the positives in change and move forward.
Have a Great Week!!
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