We all desire change. We want to transform into new versions of ourselves, but we often realize how challenging that process can be. You’ve likely heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” This phrase often makes us acknowledge the difficulty of change. However, change is not impossible. With small steps and persistent effort, anyone can change. Today, let’s talk about the challenges of change and ways to overcome them.
Why Change Is Difficult
Change is difficult because of our subconscious. Consciously, we want to change, but subconsciously, we prefer to maintain the status quo. Our habits have solidified over a long time, and breaking them is not easy. For instance, someone who hasn’t exercised for a long time might decide to work out every day, but often returns to their old ways after a few weeks because of this subconscious resistance.
Understanding the Process of Change
We expect to transform completely with a moment’s decision, just like the protagonists in movies or novels. However, real-life change happens gradually, like clothes getting soaked in a drizzle. Just as becoming wealthy requires consistent saving and investing rather than hoping for a lottery win, change also happens through small habits.
Three Ways to Embrace Change
1. Set Clear Goals
The first step towards change is setting clear goals. Establish specific goals you want to achieve. Simply thinking “I want to live better” makes change difficult. Instead, set specific goals like “Exercise for 30 minutes every morning.”
2. Create Small Habits
Daily small rituals lead to change. If you want to become a positive person, try writing a gratitude journal every day. If you want to be healthier, practice walking ten thousand steps daily. Small habits accumulate to create significant changes.
3. Accept Failure as Part of the Process
Failure is natural in the process of change. Accept failure as part of the process rather than the outcome. Failure during the effort to change is an opportunity to learn. Don’t fear failure; keep trying consistently.
Conclusion
Change is difficult but not impossible. It requires clear goals, small habits, and accepting failure as part of the process. Try small steps, and change will soon find its way to you.