The Art of Change

       Change is among the most difficult accomplishments in life. Though change may seem as simple as taking an action, the questions arise: what change to take and where to find the mental impetus to make the change. Whether we desire to quit smoking, start exercising, or change the world in which we live; real change in life is a skill which we must develop. If this skill for change is learned and put into practice we will have the ability to make the most of our lives and the world in which we live.

         Before we can take action we must have the clear desire to take that action. The desire to take a new action to change our lives is usually the result of understanding that we have fallen into a habit or routine which is no longer serving us and must be corrected. When the possibility of disrupting these habits or routines causes us to experience a sensation of fear, then we have identified the mental obstacle to taking a first practical step. Thus it is important to understand our fear of change, to face it, and then place it aside. Once fear is no longer an influence over our ability to think clearly, we can soberly examine our situation. From a clear understanding of our circumstances, our desires become clear and rational thoughts, which we may then act on with lucidity.

       Without fear, and looking rationally at what we wish to change, we can think logically on how to achieve our desired result. We start by understanding clearly what we wish to achieve: the end result. Having a goal in mind, we begin to trace the steps needed to reach it. We avoid the temptation to dig too deeply into any one aspect; we realize that we will lose our mental momentum for change by focusing too much on particular details. At this stage we only map out the general route we will take to reach our destination. After this, we come to the conclusion of what step we must first take to reach our goal.

       When we have overcome our mental obstacles to taking a new action and we have gained a good understanding of what steps we must take to reach our goal, then the next key is to take the first step toward our desired goal.  It is important to recognize the opportunity that is inherent in the now. In every moment a new action can be taken if there is desire for that action. All change can be traced back to a choice for action which is made in one moment. The first step taken is often the hardest and most important as this is the moment the inertia of inaction is replaced by forward movement.  Once inertia is broken, each following step becomes easier. The secret to taking the first step to achieve a new goal is as simple as it is difficult: just do it.

       If we live in fear with a lack of self-awareness, then we live timid and contained lives that fall far short of our potential as human beings. Life is meant to be a journey which begins in one place with birth which then develops constantly until its conclusion. Change and constant development are fundamental to fulfillment in life. Though change is an essential part of our development which leads to real satisfaction, it is one of the most difficult aspects of life to master.  If we take the time and make the effort to face this challenge of life and then succeed in conquering it, we open a pathway to a true appreciation of the joy in being alive.  Our lives have the potential to be majestic, whether or not they are majestic is usually the result of our willingness to overcome our fear to take action or our willingness to simply accept things as they already are.