Change is a captivating concept. We often believe it's something we can will into existence, relying solely on sheer determination to bring about the transformations we desire. However, the reality is that no amount of circumstances or concentration of willpower will sustain or overcome a lack of readiness for change. This readiness involves a delicate balance, a harmony of energy and attention that must be achieved before we can genuinely embark on a journey of transformation.
As a coach, I’ve witnessed it countless times: clients eager to make significant changes in their lives but struggling to see the results they hope for. Why? Because serious, lasting change requires more than just desire; it demands a particular state of being. We must have enough freed-up attention and energy to observe our circumstances, identify unhelpful narratives and habits, and embrace new practices and relationships.
So, how do we get into condition for change? Let’s explore this together.
1. Free Up Your Attention
Our lives are brimming with distractions. From the constant buzz of our smartphones to the endless stream of tasks on our to-do lists, from the never-ending meetings to the countless social obligations, our attention is often scattered. To prepare for change, we first need to create space in our minds. This means allowing ourselves moments of reflection and stillness. When we reduce the noise, we can tune in to what truly matters.
2. Energize Yourself
Change is an active process, and it requires energy. This isn’t just about physical vitality but emotional and mental energy as well. Are you getting enough rest? Are you nourishing your body with the right foods? Are you engaging in activities that replenish rather than drain you? By taking care of your holistic health, you build a reservoir of energy that can fuel your transformative efforts.
3. Observe Your Life
With your attention freed and your energy boosted, you can start to observe your life more clearly. The way we see a situation at a particular moment determines the action we take, and without fully bringing it into awareness, there is no room for change. This means stepping back and looking at your internal narrative, how you interpret the world around you, and examining your daily habits, routines, and relationships. What patterns do you see? Which interpretations and habits are serving you, and which ones are holding you back? This self-reflection is crucial for identifying what needs to change and how you can start the process.
4. Letting Go
The way we change and the way we stay the same are similar. To change, we need first to alter the structure of interpretation, our internal narrative. Every change begins with an ending. We end something and let go. We must be willing to release the habits that no longer serve us. This can be challenging, as our habits are deeply ingrained. But with a clear mind and energized spirit, we can begin to dismantle these patterns. It might mean saying goodbye to the need to always be in control, negative self-talk, or unhealthy lifestyle choices. Remember, letting go is not about losing something but making space for something better.
5. Embrace New Practices and Relationships
Finally, true change is about embracing the new. Change happens only if a new practice is present. This could be adopting new habits, cultivating new relationships, or deepening existing ones. Engage in practices that align with your values and goals. These new practices and relationships will reinforce your transformation and help sustain it over time.
In conclusion, are you ready for change? It’s a question that goes beyond mere desire. It’s about being in a state where your attention and energy are aligned, where you can observe your life situations with clarity and have new awarenesses, decide to let go of what doesn’t serve you, and embrace new views and practice.
Coaching can be a hugely effective intervention in someone’s life. When it’s not, one of the questions we must ask is if the coaching client is really in condition for change.
