Here’s to another year, another clean slate, another chance to resolve what we wish to change.
So often the resolution is simple. Just stop doing this, leave that person, change jobs, etc. But simple and easy aren’t the same thing or we would do them the minute we have the insight. Instead, we ignore, explain away, spend exorbitant amounts of time trying to create work arounds, or give in to slogan-istic thinking like “better the devil you know,” rather than make that change. Our focus turns to the financial ramifications, what others will say, fear of “I told you so,” or even fear of failure.
Yet, as long as we’re holding on to what no longer serves us we are not open to receiving what will. I let go of a job, many friends, and a truck load of worry when I could least afford to do so. The positive results were almost instant and have led to an infinitely better life. They were simple decision but they weren’t easy.
In “The Slight Edge,” Jeff Olson breaks things down to the everyday mundane details that, in the long run add up to a significant difference. Deciding whether or not to engage in a behavior at the micro level adds up to a big difference at the macro level. If I really want to lose ten pounds, this piece of candy I am eyeing takes me away from my goal. If I really want to retire and have money to travel, buying that cute pair of shoes takes me away from that goal. If I really want to build my career, is this job going to ultimately take me there? I find myself asking the question “how does this thing I want get me where I want to go in the long run?” If it doesn’t, then I begin to work toward something that will.
Will power doesn’t work. Will power means you are in a constant battle with yourself keeping you in a chronic state of stress. It is easier to choose forward momentum than to live in constant battle with a piece of candy. It is easier to go toward something positive than to avoid something negative. It’s not a perfect implementation system. Sometimes that piece of candy wins out but I am aware that it takes me back a step. I no longer look back and wonder how I got where I am. I see it every day, one micro decision at a time. Taking micro steps rather than making big changes all at once makes things easier.
So what are you holding on to that simply needs to go? What needs to change? Aren’t sure? Or aren’t sure how to move forward? I can help. Schedule a free 20 minute discovery call to see how we might work together to help you keep your resolutions for a better year and life ahead.
Here’s to making 2020 your best year!
