Do you cut yourself too much slack saying “It’s ok, I will start from tomorrow” or are you too self critical? I am upset at myself for forgetting this – why can’t I get simple things right? Lack of self-discipline and self-chastising are both ineffective in the long run when one wants to transform their life. So how does one break these cycles and have a balanced perspective on accomplishments and failures and build a habit of excellence and staying on the path.
Start Small, Start Safe
If you have a history of mis-starts on attempts to change that have not worked in the past, what you really need is small successes rather than big changes. Also, you can pick items that are relatively safe and in your control so that your chances of success increase. With this you will have more strength to continue to bigger changes.
Create your own reward
When making changes we can not wait until we are successful to feel good. Feel good first by visualizing how rewarding the positive outcome will be. How your life would be better. Visualize the future gratification and you will release the power of creativity and generate will to get there.
When we start to change things around us, somethings are bound to go wrong or not give us the desired results. Don’t look for excuses to revert to fear mode or reinforce past limiting beliefs you are working on overcoming. Just look at the situation objectively and state what is happening – do not over analyze it. Over analysis is what puts us back in the fear and regression mode. Once again remind yourself – so what if did not workout this time, I believe in what I want.
Find a coach (friend)
It is very tough for us to not regress into old patterns. Having someone who we trust and who can make us aware of our emotions and be reflector to bring us back to centeredness is very valuable. In general, this person can be a friend, a work mentor. A professional coach if the change you are initiating is huge and you have had past difficulties with it.
Be Good to Yourself
Whatever your situation today, and how much ever change you want to make, there will be no progress unless there is daily joy in your life. Also, it is important that you see the joy in your life with the changes you are planning on making.
For additional thoughts on “your joy is your power” visit this earlier blog – http://www.joywithlove.com/?p=687
Summary
Life is all about living and expressing our unique gifts. What is due to us in terms of rewards will surely come – our job is to focus on managing ourselves, expressing ourselves without fear, reflecting on and transforming our limiting beliefs.
Everyday our goal should be to make this our habit and keep moving forward in that sense. Even if somedays we feel like we are moving backwards, not letting that takeover us.
Work constantly to create joy, live life intensely and express your gifts and your life will be fulfilling and happy.