January 21st
“We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.” - Max DePree
A leader once told me, “Change is inevitable. You are either inspired to change or forced to change, but you will change.”
Why is change so hard?
Former Harvard professor Marty Linsky says change is hard because it is about the distribution of loss; when we adapt, change, and evolve, part of our DNA is lost or left behind in order to make room for something new. When we ask someone to change, we’re asking them to give up something important to them, something that has worked for them, and a part of who they are.
Even if we know we have to change or that change is good for us, it won’t be easy because we will have to give up part of who we are and have always been to become who we want to be.
How do we change?
Find a reason or purpose that is bigger than the discomfort, and make it easy, meaningful, and compelling.
Easy
In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear says you should build new habits by designing your environment to make it easier to achieve your goals. Instead of starting with something big, create momentum by starting small.
Meaningful
President John F. Kennedy once said, “Effort and courage are not enough without purpose and direction,” so find a purpose meaningful enough for you to go through what you will have to go through.
Compelling
When your purpose is compelling enough, it is so inspiring that you are willing to fight through whatever is in your way.
Question of the Day: What is a change you need to make in your life, and how will you do so?
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