The Impact of Your Choices
“You Are What You Let Yourself Become”…I read that quote somewhere years ago and have kept it tucked inside my desk drawer to remind me that at all times, the choices I make every day are gradually shaping my future – whether I am aware of this or not.
So how can you be more deliberate with your choices so that you are the creator of your life and not a passerby? I recommend asking yourself five basic questions using the 5w’s (who, what, when, where, why) as a framework. Pay attention to what comes up as you explore your responses.
What does your 85-year old self tell you? What aspects of yourself would you need to develop to become that future older and wiser version of yourself.
How you do want to spend your time? This will play a key role in determining your level of overall happiness and satisfaction.
Is this something you can act upon immediately, or do you need to develop a plan and implement changes over a period of time.
This goes beyond just the physical environment. Where will your choices lead you personally, professionally and socially. Do your career goals align with the environment you are currently in? Do you living arrangements and social circles support your growth and align with your values?
Understanding your ‘why’ is the most crucial part of this process because it grounds your decisions in purpose. Start by asking yourself why this change matters to you. For example, are you craving more fulfillment or better work-life balance? And if your ‘why’ isn’t immediately clear, that’s okay. Spend time journaling, exploring your passions or speaking with a coach to uncover the deeper motivations behind your choices. Strengthening your ‘why’ will give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.
Six Tips to Deal with Change
Sometimes we invite change into our lives, but other times it’s forced upon us when we least expect it. And while deep down we all know that change is ultimately one of life’s few guarantees, it can be extremely difficult to accept. So why is it that so many of us struggle with change and what can we do to cope?
Consider these six tips to help you navigate uncertain times with more confidence.
While change isn’t always synonymous with distress (think the excitement of starting a new job or adopting a new pet), change that is out of your control can feel destabilizing. Even small changes can cause stress when compounded with other life situations – even for those who typically consider themselves resilient.
Look to establish routines that will build consistency into your days and weeks where possible. Having a regular routine can help you feel more grounded. Be deliberate and plan ahead.
Be objective and look for positive outcomes. Change can evoke a range of difficult emotions including fear, uncertainty, insecurity, anger and lack of control. Journaling is powerful tool to help explore your triggers to create deeper self-awareness.
It can be hard to admit that you are feeling overwhelmed – especially if you are someone who typically has it all ‘together’. Regain control by being proactive and consider your options. Does your employer have an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available? Can your family physician refer you to a professional? Perhaps a close friend or family member can provide you with a reference.
As a beginner, mistakes are inevitable and a natural part of the learning process. Yet as adults, we often forget this and expect to perform at a high level at the outset. Choosing to embrace a beginner’s mindset (think being open, curious and willing to learn) will reward your brain with dopamine and will encourage the development of new neural pathways. Not only will you develop new skills more quickly, but you your brain will become more efficient and effective as you learn.
Adapting to change doesn’t happen overnight. Set a reasonable timeframe and develop a systematic approach to track and measure your progress. Acknowledge progress and celebrate even small wins. This act will feed your brain’s dopamine reward system and help keep you motivated as you work toward your goal.
