Change is an inevitable part of our human experience. You may view change as a positive, negative, or a neutral part of life. Often, change may be accompanied by significant challenges. I want to validate that making meaningful changes can feel daunting, whether internal such as challenging your negative thoughts or external such as setting boundaries. Let us dive into different ways we can begin to embrace change.
Understanding The Difficulty of Change
Recognizing that change is hard is the first step, a process that requires validation, resources, support, and connection. Additional factors that may impact change are fear of the unknown, difficulty envisioning positive outcomes, and a lack of community. It is normal to find change uncomfortable, especially when it involves adopting new patterns of behavior or altering longstanding patterns. Even though it may feel uncomfortable, taking steps to improve our mental health deserves recognition and celebration.
Figuring Out Your “Why”
This is one of the most important parts of beginning to incorporate change into your life. I encourage you to reflect on your current behaviors and explore how they may or may not be serving you. Then, after reflecting, consider the consequences of maintaining these behaviors versus making a change. This may help you understand your “why” of embracing change.
Another important thing to note is that there are different types of changes. There is first order change, meaning that you make a change because someone else wants you to. Second order change means that you are changing because you desire to and is typically more meaningful to the individual.
The Stages of Change
In therapy, we often talk about the different stages of change:
- Precontemplation: There is no desire to change and there may not be awareness of a need to change.
- Contemplation: You may begin to be aware of a problem and are beginning to think about making changes, but you have not yet committed to action.
- Preparation: You have decided to make a change and are taking steps to prepare, such as setting a goal.
- Action: You are actively taking steps to make a change.
- Maintenance: You are sustaining behaviors for the long term and making any necessary plans to prevent relapse.
These stages help us understand where we are at in our motivation to change. It is important to remember that moving back and forth between these stages is normal. Motivation can fluctuate and change is rarely a linear process.
Celebrating Progress
As you navigate your change journey, remember to celebrate each step. An analogy I like to use with clients is called “The One Degree Difference”. Imagine you are using a compass on a path and if you move one degree in any direction you will end up in a completely different location. This is to illustrate that even a small change can make a big difference.
By acknowledging your growth reinforces your efforts and helps keep you motivated. At Anchored Counseling Co., we are here to support you and cheer you on as you are making changes. Together we can navigate the challenges and celebrate your progress towards a more fulfilling life.
Additional Resources:
Anchored Counseling Company – If this message resonates with you and you are looking for support on taking steps to make changes in your life, we would love to hear from you and set you up with one of our therapists. Please fill out a form here to get started.
I’m New To Therapy…What Should I Expect? – In this episode of Becoming Anchored, hosts Lauren Jackson and Laura Deneen explore the experience of starting therapy, addressing common concerns and offering insights into what new clients can expect in their first sessions. Broadcasting from Brentwood, Tennessee, this episode serves as a helpful guide for those embarking on their therapy journey, whether for the first time or after a break. You can listen to the episode here.
Compassionate Affirmation: “Change can be a beautiful aspect of life.”
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
Laura
LPC-MHSP, CEDS-C, ACS, NCC
Owner + Director
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Co. to assist in this mission.
The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirmed, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life.
To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or contact us here.
