This is the time of year when everyone looks to make resolutions to change something for the better. Many people want to lose weight, stop smoking, exercise more… you get the picture. I imagine you are one of these people. I know I am. But there is one thing about making changes that everyone must understand and accept or the change won’t happen. We aren’t a bunch of caterpillars that will eventually turn into butterflies through metamorphosis. Our changes have to come through thoughts, actions and choices. The butterfly has no choice. Our human ability to choose is both a blessing and a curse. We choose to eat those extra potato chips while sitting on the couch. No one is forcing you to smoke that cigarette or have that extra bottle of beer. Every day of our lives we are faced with making choice after choice after choice. Many of which lead to unhealthy and unhappy results. You may have a loved one who encourages you to alter your diet or bad habits. But as we all know, that seldom works. You change because you want to. It doesn’t mean you no longer like to smoke, or eat those potato chips, or drive too fast, or sit around on our plump little tushies. You may want to change because you know you “need” to change. If we all wait until we don’t like our bad habits anymore, most of us would never change. That’s what makes them habits. And in some cases addictions. All change starts with you. Some people just need to reevaluate and set new goals for themselves. Others need third-party help. Clinics, seminars, therapy, etc. If you want to change for the better, you need to motivate from within to begin. You can start by telling yourself, you aren’t such a bad person. If you have a lot of bad habits, you probably aren’t your own favorite person. Sounds corny, but love yourself first. And all the other love will come your way. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Take baby steps, but start your journey. Each little thing you do for yourself will make you stronger and happier. At the end of the day you will start thinking only about the good things that happened. You will sleep better with fewer negative thoughts in your head. Don’t expect too much too fast. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Be the tortoise. It may take you longer to get there, but you won’t be as tired and emotionally empty when you arrive. Create an atmosphere of giving. For every single act of kindness you perform, your karma grows stronger. This is the strength you need to make the changes in your life you so desire. Even though you are the only one who can change your life, look to others when needed for support and wisdom. Never underestimate the power of family and friendship. Never be afraid, too proud or too stubborn to ask for help. Just asking for help shows the strength needed for change. If you want to change, the change starts with you! It’s never too late to begin.
Ever Changing,
J.B. Lester; Publisher
