Take a Walk
Little Steps
This month of transformation has started off with multiple subjects to get you on a path that will produce results. Oftentimes, starting new projects feels exciting and diving in with a show of force demonstrates interest. Counter-intuitively, most humans are better at making steady progress than sprinting. Moving too quickly doesn’t give the adapting muscles enough time to develop the stamina needed to withstand the changes intended. Just like at the gym, there is little to see for many visits and then suddenly a new curve is noticed. When you start to notice new thoughts appearing, self-talk that doesn’t sound like your least favorite teacher in your head or when you find yourself looking in the mirror with new eyes, those are great signs. In fact, taking a few extra minutes to really look at your reflection is required. You are getting to know this new person that you are creating.
Stepping Backwards
Most humans who are good at starting don’t always show up as finishers. After initially making new promises to yourself about crafting the fulfilling life you have been patiently waiting for, some of the sparkly stuff wears off. That is exactly when things get to a place that you will (in time) understand is the best thing to happen. If transformation was easy, humans wouldn’t need plans and programs and support to get started, stay in the mix and finally arrive at the new destination. Along the transformation way, you will feel like you are going backwards. That will really develop some new muscles. Just don’t give up on yourself. Take a quick break and dive back in. Remember routines don’t have to be all or nothing. There is no factual proof of how long change takes.
Step Up
Now is a great time to really take time to start to make some notes if you haven’t already. Downloading what is happening in your thoughts and body reinforces the practice. There will be ups and downs and knowing yourself better is a helpful side effect of transforming. Notebook info doesn’t require sharing. When you are your own creator, only you know what is really needed. You aren’t making changes for anyone but yourself. When you can focus on what you want instead of everyone else, a clear path eventually appears. If you are lucky, a couple of paths will appear. There are alternatives out there just waiting for you. If putting you first is not a normal activity, it may feel selfish. But please understand that this is the life you are responsible for. At the end of it, you don’t get points for making sure that everyone else did well if you ignored your own well-being. Take a step and look up, then take a breath. Write down how you feel each day. Use the most descriptive words you can think up to open up your mind. Don’t be afraid to be dramatic.
Step Across
Change doesn’t require tearing everything up. Sometimes you just have to step past or step over stuff. Get out of your own way. Let it lay there. If you don’t need it, it will create much-needed room for something better. Declutter as much as possible. Make decisions using your heart. Resist resisting. Name your feelings; they are a part of you and deserve recognition. At the same time, lighten up and breathe. Becoming is just the kind of thing that lets you smile at yourself, chuckle at how absurd life is and can be handled like playing a video game. You have spent dozens of hours building things or destroying stuff online. Use your innate powers to rule your own world. When the walls come down, peek over them. Look what is waiting out there for you.
Suggestions: Keep track of whatever comes to mind in a notebook or journal. If you like to doodle, draw all over your pages. Get what has been hiding inside of you out for airing. Smile at what you have accomplished so far. Next month is right around the corner.
