You know how it feels. You’re transitioning from feeling utterly stuck to feeling less stuck. Things are shifting. Now you can get out of bed in the morning without feeling dread. You can be proud of your progress.
Yet you still feel paralyzed with fear or overwhelmed at the thought of lasting change? You may feel overwhelmed because you may not know where to start to get the ball rolling in the right direction.
Below are six ways to help you determine what to do next.
- Don’t underestimate the power of movement.
My first solid suggestion is to start moving your body consistently. Lay out your gym shorts and sneakers the night before and start by walking around the block. So many times when we begin an exercise plan, we have too many goals in our minds. Your only goal here is to show up every day, no matter what. You will be utterly amazed at what a simple walking habit will do for your mind, body, and spirit. Aside from the gazillion mental and physical health benefits of a daily walking routine, it will allow you to get the space to see the big picture and
to identify where you want to go and what you want to do.
It’s a common mistake to focus on “how” when we haven’t identified what. We feel baffled and unable to move forward. Moving your body and stepping back can help specify where you want to go. Your vision will become more precise each day.
2. Determine What’s Missing or Boring or Unfulfilled, etc.
Start to think about the areas of your life where you feel bored or unfulfilled. It can be scary to ask the simple question: What is missing in my life? That’s because the answer may be complicated. You may even feel like a victim. In other words, you may look outward at the people and circumstances needing change. Of which you have no control. And you would be right. What you can change is your actions and your responses. Unfortunately, this is why many people stay stuck. In the short run, blaming a boss, coworker, or spouse for your situation is easier because it takes the spotlight off you. Be brave. Shift your focus to the person in the mirror. It is where your true power lies. So look in the mirror and ask yourself, what do I need? What do I want? Once you get this bit sorted, you can move forward for reals!
3. Recognize the Difference between Passion and Purpose
Do yourself a favor and learn the difference between passion and purpose. When you get this straight, you will save time, money, and energy.
Passion is for you.
Purpose is for others.
Passion is what brings you joy and “lights you up.” Your purpose is why you are here. For example, I am passionate about my houseplants. I love them. That doesn’t necessarily mean I should start a Youtube channel about it or work at the local garden center. I express many of my passions in my daily routine and my hobbies. My purpose, however, happens to be “changing people’s lives.” I have a long and strong track record of doing this. I am also passionate about it. Unlike my love for plants, I am on the planet to serve others by helping them to change their lives. Make sense? Even if you don’t feel passionate about your day job, you can still do your purpose.
What are your passions?
What is your purpose?
Know the difference.
4. Now Explore Your Passions and Identify Your Purpose
Changing your life can be simple, but it is never easy and takes a lot of soul-searching and hard work. That’s why most people don’t do it. They take the path of least resistance by staying in their comfort zone and complaining about everything and everybody.
But that’s not you!
Start by listing the things you’re passionate about and explore those options in more detail. Scan the landscape of your life and uncover what you enjoy doing. Was it fun, exciting, or interesting? Could you dive deeper and turn that experience into a fulfilling hobby? Would you consider the possibility of this experience becoming a job opportunity? Or does that idea suck all of the fun out of it? Take this step without worrying about whys, should-haves, and would-not. Instead, connect more with your subconscious to discover what resonates with you and your core values.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Learn New Skills
No matter how many excellent skills you already have, learning something new is always nice. Consider what you’d like to know, whether soft skills or hard. Then, look for places in your community or online to take classes. For example, you want to learn more about graphic design. Consider applying to an art program. Or if you’re interested in gardening. You can take a class in gardening and plants. Whichever you decide to pursue, remember to set short-term goals that follow the SMART framework. This framework ensures that your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based.
6. Stop Allowing Unknown Possibilities Hold You Back
Change is scary because we don’t know what to expect from our decisions. This fear keeps you in a state of inaction and apprehension.
Imagine that you could let go of all that worry for a few minutes.
You need to trust yourself and maintain a positive mindset to do that. Have faith that you’ll find a way to handle whatever comes along.
Stop thinking of change as something to be dreaded and feared. Instead, you can begin to think of it as something thrilling that adds a layer of excitement and intrigue to your life.
Remain to be open to whatever life brings your way. It may surprise you with an even better outcome than the one you had initially envisioned for yourself.
Final Thoughts
Remember, we live in a world of social media claims and overnight success. But those approaches to a well-lived life don’t apply to most people. So when you’re lacing up your sneakers and walking (or running outside), create the space you need to see. Think and creatively pursue your goals and dreams, explore your passions, and learn new skills; remember to be patient with yourself. Patience is a missing virtue in today’s culture. However, if you know to embrace it, it can bring miracles into your journey.
“Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Neither was anything else that could stand the test of time.
If you’re unsure what to do next, these strategies can help you enhance your personal and professional life and make the journey fun.
It can be challenging but gratifying if you’re determined to make a difference in your life. You must take that first step to determine your new and exciting path.
Be well + prosper,
Elaine xx
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