Do you like change in your life? If so, how much change?
Most people tend to resist change, wanting to “know what to expect,” even if their circumstances really would benefit from change. THey like the dependability of their known universe.
Many people are afraid of change – fear of uncertainty, and unwillingness to leave their comfort zone.
You probably know people that stay in bad relationships, for example, because they are afraid they will be alone. They can’t count on meeting someone new.
This kind of attitude keeps us from being able to experience the expansion of life that is our true calling.
So what can be done to stop resisting change? Ronald Alexander, Ph. D. (Executive Director of the OpenMind Training Institute) offers suggestions in his book “Wise Mind, Open Mind, and shares a glimpse in an article he wrote for Huffington Post.
Here are a few of the types of resistance to change that he shares, along with a suggestion on how to move thru these resistances.
1. Belief that whatever we want is beyond us, so what is the point of even trying.
By spending time focusing on satisfaction of the moment, it allows for creativity to enter the picture so that you can be inspired to actions that can help you achieve this desire. He shares Satisfaction Meditation to help with this here.
2. Feeling like you are just too tired or depressed to take any action.
This one can be solved by a multi-pronged approach to get you on the road to vitality. Start by being aware of any reasons for your sluggish feelings: diet, exercise, sleep, allergies. Start making corrections to anything that stands out to you. If you can begin getting some exercise, it can change your entire body chemistry, making it much easier to have more positive thoughts. Walking meditations can help.
3. Feelings of restlessness, going from one activity to another without finishing tasks.
Restlessness can be banished by embracing comfort and relaxation, which allows the mind to slow down, and triggers the Relaxation Response, which slows your heart rate and breathing. Mindfulness meditation can assist in this regard.
Dr. Alexander Shares:
Acceptance of what’s happening in the moment, and of the current situation, is a cornerstone of positive psychology. The paradox is that this wholehearted acceptance of the present, regardless of how unpleasant or even painful circumstances might be, is absolutely necessary if you’re to change the situation for the better. From acceptance, you move into action, allowing resolve and determination to rush in.
