I think that people are by nature "creatures of habit. " We get comfortable in things that are familiar and sometimes confuse this with happiness.
In my experience as a therapist, it is only when you are uncomfortable that the motivation for change kicks in. The more uncomfortable, the more motivated you are to change.
I would propose that is it through change that we experience new and different things which are invaluable to our growth and personal actualization. How can that be good, you might wonder, if change feels so unsettling.
First of all, when we experience a contrast, often things stand out more clearly. A simple example, spend a day not eating and see how much you enjoy your next meal. Likewise, if it rains for days on end. the first sunny day feels incredibly wonderful.
It is often not easy to perceive change as positive when the change is a result of something out of our control. Times like these can certainly cause anxiety, fear and sadness.
But, I am referring to changes that you initiate. These changes can be a way to open up new doors and allow for a different perspective. Here is a small, simple example. This morning, I reversed the route that I typically run. It is amazing to see how different the trail looked from the opposite direction. I would have missed that !
I have also recently attempted to promote new friendships which has felt very rewarding. It is so easy to get complacent and not even realize how much we are missing.
Try it for yourself and see!
Change also forces us to be challenged and ,with this, comes experience in problem solving, developing creativity and promoting new ways of thinking. All invaluable skills for the times when "change " kicks us in the butt and takes us for a loop.
As wise Dr Seuss wrote so eloquently in "Oh, The Places You'll Go"
OH! THE PLACES YOU'LL GO! ...You'll join the high fliers who soar to high heights.
Except when you don't. Because, sometimes, you won't. I'm sorry to say ...that Bang-ups and Hang-ups can happen to you. ....Just be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act.
So, go for it! What are you waiting for??
