Ch ch ch changes
“The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.”
– Albert Einstein
Change is bleeping hard. Changing jobs, homes, relationships are challenging, but that’s because it requires changing our thinking. That’s the hardest part of change.
Imagine you went for a promotion. You knew you were more qualified than your colleague who was also going for it. But he plays sneaky and manipulative and he got it. Ouch that burns. Now what? Do you wallow in bitter, resentful and angry? I get that, but it eats up your energy and sends out icky vibes.
How do we change our thinking?
- Compare yourself to You. I do not recommend comparing yourself to others, but we all do it at times. Some people beat themselves up by comparing to someone “more” successful than them. Other use it as away to feel better about their situation by comparing to those less fortunate. This is superficial. Superficial stays on the top level of our epidermis, it doesn’t sink into the heart, which means the comfort won’t last either. But when you compare yourself to yourself, you’re doing the correct measurement. Am I where I want to be? Now you can define where you want to be. Powerful.
- Fight no more. Ohh boy, I fight change like a pro and I’m exhausted to prove it. Have you ever felt so angry and pissed off at the universe or whomever is running this darn show called life? That’s called fighting it. I’m not saying you shouldn’t be angry, not at all, I’m saying that if you are frozen and unable to take action, you’re fighting what needs to happen. Release and all will flow. If not beautifully, then definitely less painfully.
- Talk it up. The tool to avoid the truth of what’s really going on is to not discuss it with anyone. There’s no need to announce it to the world, but there is a huge benefit to bounce off ideas with someone you trust and has your best interest at heart. It’s amazing what happens when we speak words aloud. Suddenly we can see things in a different perspective and that’s where the change starts.
- Take responsibility for your own happiness. It starts inside. For real. Regardless of what is being flung at you, seek ways to feel your power, your courage and your smile. I heard this recently from a friend who was interviewing a candidate: “You need to bring your own happy. If you can’t do that, this isn’t the place for you.” I thought this was brilliant. Real, articulate, and set up this candidate for success.
- Gratitude. I swear this is the most powerful tool in the universe. Even more than compassion. What? Did Rena say something was more powerful than compassion?!? Yes, compassion leads to gratitude which is the ultimate gift to yourself. Say “Thank you” as often as you want and you’ll start to feel thankful. List the things you are thankful for – your toes that wiggle, your brain that can think, your friends, the list is truly endless.
- Take action. Yes! Positive, self-fulfilling, forward momentum action. Update your resume. Research companies to find the right fit. Or take inside-your-company action. I know someone who didn’t “get the promotion” and she used her energy to take a leadership role in the Women’s Initiative at her company. She has since had exposure to world leaders and received an award of recognition for her service.
Your world cannot change without a change in your thinking. So true Albert, so true.