Faced with the Challenges of Change?

by Suzie Doscher

"Change is Inevitable, Progress Optional" - Tony Robbins

Change is not easy or simple. If you have been told you should change but are not really convinced this is true, you are more likely to fail at completing the process. You stand a better chance if want, and are motivated, to change something. This could be a behaviour pattern, how you react, a communication style or how you view the world to name a few examples.

Change can only really take place if you are ready to take action.

Research shows 90% of the strategies designed for change assume people are ready to take action. In reality only 20% of the people already involved in some process of change are actually ready to take action. This helps explain why so many attempts to keep New Year's resolutions, lose weight, change behaviour, etc. are doomed to failure.
The most successful way to approach changing a behaviour pattern is to:

• Realize and acknowledge that things can no longer stay the same.
• Accept that it is possible to do things differently. 
• Take the time to gather the necessary knowledge, insight, and support to follow through.
• Consider how your life will change in a positive way by making this change. Pro and Cons lists tend to work. This step will help to motivate you and keep you motivated.
• Decide what steps need to be taken to move in the right direction. Can you do this alone, do you need support, a coach or a consultant ...
• Explore any denial, disempowering, defensive, or self-sabotaging behaviour. If you are not familiar with any 'self-sabotage routines' you have it will be difficult to sustain a new behaviour. 
• Know and acknowledge that you, and your life, are worth this effort.
• Recognize and work through the obstacles and possible self-sabotage routines that appear.

Remember: Each step in itself will require time and reflection. To be successful, you will need to schedule the necessary time, to be patient with yourself, and to bear in mind that you will encounter some setbacks along the way, all of which is part of the process.

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