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You’ve read self-help books, listened to podcasts, gone to seminars, or logged into online webinars. Coaches and trainers say, “Everything you need is right there inside you.” Yet, for some reason, all of your efforts and results don’t match what you imagined. If this is true for you, then keep reading. This article will help you go from feeling flat to flourishing.
When we are trying to make change in our lives, there are typically a few things holding us back:
1. The pain of change is more than the comfort of staying the same. Our bodies and minds are programmed to love pleasure and avoid pain. Unfortunately, there are some bad habits or behaviors we have that feel good to us. We are used to them.
What to do: Match the pain of change with positive reinforcement in the beginning. Allow yourself to release some positive emotions and reward yourself for achieving something small. Don’t let yourself get caught in the “I can celebrate when I am there...” type of mindset. Celebrate your small successes from the beginning.
2. You’re trying too many different things at the same time. Scattered efforts lead to minimal progress. Over time, you realize you did not stick with any one method long enough to work.
What to do: Stick with a system or method for change long enough to let it work. You may need to hire a coach or trainer to keep you accountable. Ignore the thoughts, “What if this doesn’t work?” What doesn’t work is what you have been doing before.
3. You’re over-thinking everything, also referred to as analysis paralysis. You’re good at digesting information. However, the acquisition of knowledge has become a habit within itself, preventing you from actually doing anything.
What to do: Take some action right NOW. This is no longer about writing goals and designing a vision. It is time to get off your butt and do something that will try to move you in the right direction.
After a limited time of research, commit to doing one thing that applies what you learned. One step in the right direction gives you some feedback and a sense of progress.
4. Your heart is in the wrong place. You’re trying to make a change for all the wrong reasons. What I mean is that you are trying to change yourself because someone or something else wants you to. Your internal motivation is not there.
What to do: Revisit what you want. Jim Rohn said, “If you don’t design your own life plan, you’ll fall into someone else’s plan.” Identify some of the things that are aligned with your heart and purpose for your life.
5. You’re simply exhausted. You may be working a day job, side hustle and have family responsibilities at the same time. Your energy runs out by Wednesday, and your report is due on Friday. There is no more energy in your tank to do anything.
What to do: Rest and make it a routine. Without energy, you won’t be able to do anything. Check if you are resting enough each day. You might have to take a day off from the side hustle to recharge. Additionally, check that you are eating foods that energize.
Hi! What is your opinion on this article? Do you have anything additional to share on this topic to help our MOTIVATION readers grow? Please feel free to share your input by commenting below. Thank you in advance for sharing.
About the Author: Paris Law
Paris Law is an internationally known author, trainer and coach based in Shanghai, China. He focuses on helping small businesses and busy professionals get their learning and marketing systems producing results.
For information on the author, click on the following link: Paris Law.
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