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SALT LAKE CITY — While January is typically the month for change, amidst the chatter on how to make it happen we might overlook what keeps us from starting.
Lack of vision
In Proverbs 29:18 it says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Why? Because they have no idea where they’re going or what they have before them. Create a simple vision for yourself by asking a few questions:
- What matters most to me now?
- What will matter most to me in 50 years?
- Where do I spend my time and energy now, and does it matter most? Is it making me happy?
- What one change would put what matters most first and make me happier?
Consider the answers and post them on a board, planner or sticky note to remember them. In "The Happiness Project", author Gretchen Rubin shares the concept of accessibility of information, or how readily such comes to mind. She says, “Information that has been recently called up or frequently used in the past is easier to retrieve and therefore energized.”
By keeping particular goals and ideas in the forefront, the mind and body are more ready to act on them.
Abundance of doubt
When starting something new there’s definitely an adrenaline rush of possibility, but then the worry sets in. Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe said, “Difficulties increase the nearer we approach the goal.”
Questions begin like, “What if I fail again? What if I’m not cut out to do such and such? What if it takes too much time/energy/work?”
Eliminate these negative thoughts as soon as they enter your mind and soul. If there are real difficulties in making a change, list them on paper then brainstorm at least one solution for each concern.
If no solutions come to mind, ask a friend, neighbor or co-worker. Other people have fabulous insights and one of them might just work for you. Spend your time on resolving the “how” to make a change, not “if” you can make it.
Handful of naysayers
There are the arm-chair, naysayer or dream-stealer people of the world — sometimes out there and sometimes right in your own backyard. Remember: Ultimately it is you who lives your life, and you are accountable for how you live it. Consider your dreams, goals and changes with your situation in mind. When you put who and what matters most first, the rest falls into place.
When in doubt, go with the gut instinct that tells you when something is a right fit or a good move. Challenge the naysaying with prayerful, thoughtful understanding of who you are and what you’re meant to do. As you focus on what is value-based you can move forward in faith and joy, knowing you are embarking on a life-changing adventure.
Consider what keeps you from beginning a positive change in your life and combat it with one of these suggestions.
Connie Sokol is an author, speaker, TV contributor and mother of seven. Contact her at www.conniesokol.com.
