How does Change occur? What is the impetus for it to happen?

1. Change occurs when the pain to remain the same is too great.

Only you can control the change that can take place. Part of the disenchantment by many is the realization that a slogan and one person’s idea is not enough to change a nation, system or club. You can however, change yourself. You can change the way you act, speak, work and live.
Every year millions of people make new years resolutions and every year by February 1st- one month later they have been cast aside. Why is that? Many times these resolutions are “ifs” and “hope to” not a MUST do. Only when the pain or pending outcome will result in disaster do people truly change.
It seems as though a diet or working out is on everyone’s list each year. Most stop within 60 days. Yet, those with dietary needs or cancer that MUST change their diet DO in order to survive- in order to continue living.

2. You can not change someone else

We see this over and over again in failed relationships and marriages. You genuinely like the person but hope to be able to “change” the way they act, behave or even converse with others.
Let’s make it SIMPLE. You can NOT change them. They must earnestly want to change themselves. People will not change to conform to an ideal that you possess or want.

3. Change happens from within

So how does change occur with someone that wants to change? A lot of it depends on what they are changing but here are some simple steps:
1. Start with the reason you want to change. Understand not just what you are changing but WHY.
2. Uncover the barriers: What has prevented you from changing this before?
3. Eliminate the barriers. Are they physical, emotional, relational barriers? Many times people have surrounded themselves with people that enable them to remain the same and those that will not support a change. You must find a Changer.
4. Find Changers – Find those that are succeeding in the arena you want to change. Contact the Changer and ask them for a plan. Engage them to help you with your new change. It is always amazing to me how many people want to help but never get asked to help. Enlist the help of a Changer today.
5. 1 Change at a Time. Do not start with 10 things you want to change tomorrow. Understand it is a process and to focus on one thing at a time.

4. What will you change today?

So, what will it be? What will you change today that will make a better YOU tomorrow? The only person limiting your potential is yourself. Start with the change within today. 3 months from now you will see a change not only you can BELIEVE in but a change that did occur!!

Happy Changing!