Why do smart, adaptable, resilient humans get stuck?
Like almost everything in my life, I am a walking contradiction when it comes to change. I love the idea of change and the growth it provides, but do not enjoy the change process - especially the radical and transformative ones.
I know I am not alone in this feeling.
Some of the smartest, most adaptable and resilient humans I know struggle with change. But why?
For me it usually comes down to a fear the unknown or needing to shift my perspective.
However, after reading several books and articles about why change is hard and reasons we procrastinate, here are a few common reasons you may have experienced…
Thinking of it as a huge undertaking that has to be done in a big bang approach
Fear of failure or success (the success one feels funny until you realize it is actually a thing)
What you are trying to accomplish is unclear, (usually related to a feeling or state of mind such as “I want to be happier”)
We want immediate results to validate our decisions / actions and give up too soon
We have to take ownership and responsibility for all actions and inactions
Planning is important until it is used to stall and justify inaction (this is another one I can fall into)
Unwillingness to learn from mistakes and course correct
The good news is there are techniques and tools for pushing past these and other barriers to success.
Practicing self-awareness - reflect and determine the “why” behind your actions (or lack of action)
Creating a reflection bubble - create space and carve out dedicated time to think about what YOU want and plot a clear path forward
Realizing change comes from within - you are an expert on you and are the best person to tell you what you need to do to create long lasting, meaningful change
Focusing on small incremental changes - radical change is often a collection of small, micro-changes
Shifting our perspective - if you don’t like something, find another way to think about it
