Even though intellectually I understand that the only constant aspect in our lives is change, I still struggle with it sometimes. A false sense of security comes from having a routine and things seeming the same on the outside, even though in reality things are always changing… and it feels comforting somehow. Then something happens- it can be as small as dinner plans changing or as big as a move to another state- and it can feel like the carpet is pulled out from under me. Have you ever felt that way? How do I get comfortable with change?
Yet that is the illusion of it all- things change around us all the time! We cannot control anything around us whatsoever- certainly not nature, the environment, or definitely not other people (unfortunately).
Of course there is one way we can gain security and control with practice. Can you guess?
How Do I Get Comfortable With Change?
We can control ourselves. Yep- our SELVES. Specifically, we can control how we react, feel, and act in every moment. We can decide right now to feel good or smile regardless of what is going on around us, whether we are stuck in traffic or holding a crying baby in the night. We of course can also choose to feel bad. It’s up to us. Go ahead and try it now- smile (for at least 5 seconds)… it feels good!
The great thing about knowing this truth about having control and choosing how we feel and act is that we can learn how. It would have been amazing if we all grew up in schools that taught us more about emotional intelligence, self control, and other amazing life tools. Thank goodness It is never too late to learn.
One of the best ways hands down to get in touch with you and your process is by going to a live event like Tony Robbin’s Unleash the Power Within- where you are immersed for several days in implementing this exact practice of becoming aware of your feelings (state) and learning how to shift gears when you want to. The empowerment that comes from knowing that you can feel good and are in control of YOU and your reactions is incredible.
Another great tool is listening to Louise Hay’s lectures online about changing the way we think using positive affirmations. She even recommends listening to them in the background while doing other things so that the messages sink into our subconscious.
An important note here is to be gentle with yourself in learning new tools… patterns can sometimes take a bit to shift- not always but sometimes. Celebrate small accomplishments and steps forward. Before you know it you will be several steps higher, and then higher on your path. Let’s enjoy the journey and become change welcoming rockstars! Go out of your way to create change and do things differently. Take a different route to work! Walk down different paths or shop in different stores than you are accustomed to- let’s do this!
Rockstar Challenge:
For the next 3 days do at least one thing different from the routine (even if it’s eating a different breakfast than you are used to)! And share it in the comments section below. We will do this too! Giddy up rockstars!
