Five Steps to Embracing Change

Change isn’t easy. Anything new can feel uncomfortable, especially if that change is about letting go of something. Every decision we make is a choice, and each choice has benefits and consequences. If I have a cup of coffee at 3:00 in the afternoon, it may have the benefit of keeping me awake at that time but may also interfere with my sleep that night or aggravate my reflux. I may choose to naturally address my reflux or take antacids that can have immediate relief and long-term consequences from frequent use.

So how does one go about making choices that create beneficial changes in their life?

Adding In:

First, let me say that change does not always have to be about giving something up. My coaching program taught the philosophy of adding in. Let’s take a diet, for example. Adding in one more serving of vegetables every day or adding in an extra glass of water is a great way to start making changes that you can live with.

Make it incremental:

I used to put two heaping teaspoons of sugar in my coffee (I really have made many changes over the years.) Rather than going cold turkey, I slowly reduced the amount of sugar until my taste buds got used to it without sugar. Speaking of coffee… I have an on-off relationship with coffee, here too. Whenever I go off, I incrementally decrease my caffeine by mixing in decaf or a coffee substitute like teeccino or a Dandy blend (both great alternatives to coffee).

Listening to your body: 

When I go off of caffeine, inevitably, I will get a headache. If I am really listening to my body, I tell myself that I have a caffeine addiction. Guilty as charged! If you notice that you feel bloated and have pain when you eat gluten, maybe your body is trying to tell you something. An elimination diet is a great way to figure out what you are sensitive to. Reach out if you need guidance in the area!

Be open to try new things:

What would it feel like to go without coffee, dairy, gluten, food coloring? How could adding supplements to my routine help me feel better? What new foods or superfoods might you try? How might an essential oil help with my discomfort, help improve  sleep, improve my mood, balance my hormones?

Give it 30 days. 60 or 90 days is even better: 

Some research says it takes 21 days to change a habit. Some say 30, but committing to a change for 60-90 days allows one to see and feel differences. Keep a journal. This is a great way to know what you’re experiencing.

Scout out obstacles: 

The aroma of fresh-brewed coffee is definitely an obstacle to my desire to lessen caffeine in my life. Keeping tempting foods that don’t serve me out of my cupboards helps stave off the urge to munch. As I create new habits, I work to make it easier to remember what my intent is. Setting timers, using post-it notes or schedules can help things like movement or drinking water. I keep a glass of water by my bed, so it is the first thing I see when I get up, I keep my oils and supplements for sleep by my bed to remember to use them.

And lastly, look at the big picture of what you want: 

If you desire a particular outcome, you may need to embrace the idea of change. Quitting smoking, diet coke, fast food and the many other changes I have made over the years was not easy, but the benefits were well worth it.

If you are looking for support in making changes in your health, I have the tools to help you on your way! Let’s talk!