I don’t believe our core values change, but our habits,
lifestyle, mindset, and ways of dealing with life do. However, these elements
took years to establish, so don’t expect change to happen overnight. It
requires dedication, consistency, commitment, self-belief, and patience. But it’s
not impossible.
How to Create Lasting Change
- Identify
the ‘Why’
Ask yourself: Why do I need this change? What’s the problem? It could be financial struggles, an unhealthy habit, a fitness goal, or a lifestyle shift. The first steps are: - Acknowledge
and accept that you need a change.
- Identify
the problem. By doing so, you’re already halfway to solving it.
- Assess
Feasibility
Is this change realistic? What resources, support, or knowledge do you need? Surrounding yourself with the right tools and people can make the process smoother. - Create
a Roadmap
Break the change into small, actionable steps. Overwhelming yourself with a massive goal often leads to failure. Instead, break it down into manageable milestones to ensure steady progress. - Start
Small and Be Consistent
Follow the 1% Rule -a concept from James Clear’s Atomic Habits- which states that making small, 1% improvements daily leads to significant transformation over time. This is known as The Compound Effect (Darren Hardy), where small, consistent actions accumulate into remarkable results. - Set
a Realistic Timeline
Every plan needs a timeline, one that aligns with your goals and doesn’t set you up for disappointment or failure. Be flexible, but keep a clear structure. - Accept
Setbacks as Part of the Journey
You will stray from your path. You will fail. That’s normal. What matters is how you bounce back. Treat failures as lessons, adapt, and move forward with better knowledge. - Challenge
Yourself & Push Your Limits
You are capable of far more than you think. The best way to discover your potential is by stepping beyond what feels comfortable. This process strengthens resilience and builds confidence.
“If you only do what you can do, you will never be more than who you are.” — Master Shifu, Kung Fu Panda 3
- Stretch
Your Comfort Zone Gradually
Research suggests that we don’t actually leave our comfort zones; we expand them. Studies on neuroplasticity show that the brain rewires itself through new experiences, making change easier over time (Dweck, 2006; Carol S. Dweck’s Growth Mindset). - Celebrate
Progress & Reward Yourself
Don’t wait for others to validate your achievements, clap for yourself. Take a moment and step back to reflect on how far you’ve come and recognize your progress. - Make
It an Adventure, Not a Chore
See change as an exciting journey rather than a daunting task. The more fun you have, the more likely you’ll stick with it. - Document
the Process
Journaling, social media posts, videos, or even simple notes can help track progress, maintain motivation, and inspire others. - Analyze
What Works & What Doesn’t
Self-reflection is key. Identify what’s helping and what’s holding you back, then adjust accordingly. - Find
a Support System
Surround yourself with like-minded individuals or mentors who encourage and support your growth. Whether it's a community, a coach, or a trusted friend, external accountability makes a difference. - Practice
Self-Compassion
Change is hard. There will be tough days, but remember to be kind to yourself. Progress, not perfection, is the goal. - Practice
Self Check-in
Regularly ask yourself: How do I feel? Acknowledge and accept your emotions rather than resisting them, this is a natural part of the process. Whether you feel frustrated, excited, exhausted, or empowered, embracing your emotions helps you navigate change with greater self-awareness and resilience. - Don’t
Compare Yourself to Others: Everyone’s journey is different. What
worked for someone else may not work for you, and that’s okay. Focus on
your personal progress rather than measuring yourself against others.
Always remember….
Change doesn’t happen overnight, but through consistent,
small actions, transformation is inevitable. Trust the process, believe in
yourself, and take that first step today.