Sustaining Lasting Change...

During this time of year it is only natural to think about making shifts... changes... new beginnings. It is also quite natural to be impacted by the energy of change that is in the air. And it's a great motivator to commit. 

Typically we don't have trouble jumping in and starting. The real challenge is in sustaining the momentum. 

Change can be difficult. Even when it's a change we WANT. So... to help you sustain the the effort and changes, I offer a few easy steps:

1- Partner with a friend. It can be reinforcing to have someone who knows what you are working towards. She can help cheer you on and keep you on track. Just be sure to understand what your motivators are. Do you like being held accountable? Gentle support? Tough love? Whatever your preferences, have a conversation up front with your partner so you can agree on how best to support each other.

2- Build in reflection time. Often we are so focused on the main goal and outcome that we neglect the effort and changes that are happening along the way. True change doesn't happen overnight. Your willingness to continue the path is worth celebrating. Take time to take stock of not only where you are headed, but where you began. Note the shifts. Celebrate the wins... even if, or especially if you feel there have been detours along the way. Remember, it's not how much we fall down that matters, but how often we get back up.

3- Chart your course for change incrementally. Small steps are easier to incorporate into your life. Let's say you want to wake up an hour earlier each morning. Instead of flipping the switch and setting the alarm to shock your system by an hour in the morning, choose a smaller increment. Maybe 15 minutes earlier. Or 10. Or how about just 5. It won't be so jarring and you'll be able to sustain the changes more easily. Just keep making the small incremental movements until you reach the goal. And then celebrate the hell out of it!

What is a goal you are going after this year? How can I help you get there?

xo
​L