Change is incredibly scary. The unknown, the unfamiliar territory, the knowledge that you don’t even know all that you don’t know. Sometimes though, you know you need to make a change. You know that if you don’t take action that things will certainly not get better on their own. But again, change is scary. What do you do? There is a lot you can do.
1. Decide Your Risks
List out what you are risking. Make a list of everything that you are afraid of giving up (potentially or for sure) if you make this change. Consider the value of the items on that list as you go. Are you risking more than your potential rewards?
2. Imagine Your Future (If You Change)
Take time to close your eyes and envision what your future will look like with the change. Consider all aspects of your life that will be affected by the change. Is this a life you want? Do you see good things happening?
3. Imagine Your Future (If You Don’t Change)
Consider your future life if you don’t make that change. Do you see yourself being happy? Do you see the same old same old? Now, consider the outcomes of both futures you have imagined. Does one seem better? Does one have more opportunities for happiness? Be honest with these imagined futures.
4. Recruit Help
Change is scary and challenging, but you do not have to go it alone. Recruit the essential people in your life to support you through these changes. This can be a partner, friend, parent, or anyone willing to give advice, a shoulder, or help fill in the gaps in other areas of your life as you go through the transitions.
5. Start Small
You do not have to jump in with both feet on your first attempt at making changes. Start small if you need or want to. Little changes can add up to make significant differences and will allow you to do things at your own pace.
6. Give Yourself Grace
Mistakes happen. Missteps are taken. Balls are dropped. Give yourself grace as you navigate this new territory and find your way on your journey of change.
Taking the plunge and pushing yourself into much-needed change does not have to be an all or nothing situation, and you do not have to go it alone. Consider the steps you need to take and how you can set yourself up for success when change is on the horizon.
Until next time, many blessings and much peace! xo