Last week I talked about how to embrace change. This week, I am going to dovetail on that subject and break down how to make the necessary adjustments to become the best version of yourself. Everyone goes through periods of time when they don’t feel great about where they are in life. Whether you feel stuck in your job, ended a relationship, or gained a few pounds, just know that all situations are temporary and you will overcome them. These issues may feel overbearing, but there are healthy ways to work through them and start accomplishing your goals.
First and foremost, don’t let yourself be consumed by self-doubt and negativity. Understand that there is a way out of whatever you’re going through. Second, start looking at your options. You always have a choice in whatever circumstance you find yourself in. Finally, take the first step and start making some changes! This could mean applying for a new job or saying “yes” more often to social plans. Whatever it is that feels stagnant will begin to change when you shift the way you view the situation.
Don’t let Negativity Take over When your life becomes stagnant in an area, it invites negative thoughts into your mind. Situations only become idle when you feel as though you have gained all of the life experience that was necessary from them. At this point, it is time to move on. Remaining in these positions will only increase your feelings of negativity. Start to think about what your passions are so you can consider what you need to do to follow them. This will help you to shift the focus of your thoughts towards something more productive.
Focus on the Solutions Instead of listing the ways in which you are unhappy, think about how you can change your circumstances. If you feel stuck in your job, rather than making excuses to stay, accept that you have gained ample experience and are now better prepared for your next step. Or maybe you are in a relationship rut where you have the same fight over and over again and neither of you are willing to compromise. Whatever the case may be, you don’t deserve to feel bored or helpless. Reevaluate your worth and focus on achieving your goals.
Start Making Changes Changing your current situation isn’t always easy. It can involve leaving a job you have worked at for many years. Or shifting deeply engrained lifestyle habits towards healthier ones, when all you want is a slice or four of buffalo chicken pizza. But, if you don’t take that first step, you’ll never know what opportunities are available for you. Remember, not all changes have to be dramatic. You can start with something as simple as taking the stairs rather than the escalator or asking your significant other out for a surprise date night to spice things up. You don’t have to completely overhaul your life to begin to take charge of it, sometimes it is the littlest adjustments that make the greatest difference.
Taking those first steps towards bettering yourself can be scary, but it will be one of best things you do for yourself. Simply by starting this process, you are shifting the way you view obstacles in the future. Knowing that you have the capability to take yourself out of a negative mindset is empowering. You are in charge of your life and you have the ability to choose which direction it goes in.