Embrace Change - Before or After Retirement - Refresh Your Life
Six Ways to Enjoy Change and Refresh the Journey of Life at Any Age
Change is a constant in life, and it's often something that people naturally resist or fear. However, you can learn to embrace change instead of fighting against it. You can enjoy the journey of life a lot more with the right mindset and tools.
Think about the butterfly and remember a time when you were released from something. High School or College? A bad relationship? Your airplane just took off on the way to a happy destination - maybe Hawaii? That sense of freedom is something that can be anticipated - even created and held out as you purpose or goal. Change IS coming and you can use it to your advantage.
Here are six ways to do just that:
Accept That Change Is Inevitable
When you fight against change, you're essentially fighting against yourself and the natural ebb and flow of life, not to mention your own personal growth. It's vital to remember that you don't have control over everything in life – sometimes, things will happen. The only thing you really control is how you will respond.
There is always a space between stimulus and response where you can avoid just reacting out of fear. that space can be cultivated, like a garden. It is within your control, or certainly can be strongly influenced if not totally controlled.
Stay Open-Minded
This means that when faced with new challenges or changes in your life, you are willing to explore different options and try out new approaches. Therefore, it's important not to shut yourself off from new experiences or perspectives that could potentially enrich your life in some way.
To stay open minded start with your calendar to see which day might have some time to change a cherished routine, drive a different way home, check a book out at the library, eat lunch at new place. Make a list for that day each week and at the end of four weeks see what you learned about yourself. You deserve it!
Focus on the Positive
Often, the fear of change stems from focusing on all the negatives and potential risks involved. Instead, focus on what you will gain or accomplish by embracing the change. If you hold a positive outlook and approach each new situation with an open mind, you'll be more likely to enjoy the journey of life.
It is often helpful to use images for this. Photographs of fun places you went or someplace you are planning to go. Make a little positive notebook of images and put them by your bed. Look at them as you drift off. It will set your subconscious to task on filling the bucket with positive pleasant feelings you can carry through until tomorrow night.
Make a Conscious Effort to Be Present in the Moment
Finding joy in the present can be challenging when you're constantly worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. So instead of getting wrapped up in what's coming next or going over what happened before, try to stay focused on what's happening around you right now. This will help you appreciate each day as it comes and savor the experiences you're having along the way.
One popular book on this is The Power of NOW, by Eckhart Tolle. There is a new journal to go with it and there are audible, Kindle, and Paperback. I like his approach to this important subject because I have trouble staying in the present. Here is a link to Amazon, but you can also get a lot of help with this whole area at a good local bookstore.
Build Strong Relationships
One of the most essential things in life is having strong, supportive relationships – with your family, friends, and yourself. When you spend time with people who care about you, support your goals, and help lift you during difficult times, you'll feel more confident and inspired to embrace change in your life.
Which group of people do you know that are willing to help each other with change? If you can't pick one quickly it's a clue. Maybe look around for gatherings that are different and join one for a few weeks. Or just ask your best friend how they would approach this subject. Ask two or three.
Celebrate Your Successes
Be sure to celebrate all the positive things that happen along the way, no matter how big or small, as you embrace change. This can help keep you motivated and focused on what's ahead while also reminding you of how far you've come and everything you must be grateful for along the way.
Change is a fundamental part of life, but it doesn't have to be something you resist or fear. By focusing on the positive and staying open-minded, you can learn to embrace change and make the most of your journey through life. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to enjoying every step of the journey, no matter what life may bring.
Happy Days Ahead
Joe Grant, MBA
Certified Retirement Coach
Contact me for a Free 45 minute Consultation at https://yourvantagepoints.com
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