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Welcome back to the Growing Tree of Life, our weekly exploration of personal growth and well-being.
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Do not try this at home!
Issue Number: #046
Date: 30 November 2023
Reading Time: 4 minutes
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What did you think when you read the title?
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For me, it brings out a feeling of danger. Something really scary is going to happen right now.
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And that's often how we feel when we face change, especially big changes. Often we feel that change is hard. That it is an insurmountable challenge. But why? And is it true? Is a change really hard?
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Well, let's look into that notion together.
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Change Is Uncomfortable
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Change is not inherently hard, but it surely is uncomfortable.
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Why? Because change takes us into unfamiliar terrain and uncertainty.
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When we embark on a journey of change, we step into uncharted territory. Our brains interpret this as a tough task. You see, your brain values efficiency and energy conservation. It's wired to be cautious about expending effort on uncertain outcomes.
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Brain Doesn't Care About "Happy"
Your current situation might not be ideal, perhaps even miserable, but your brain's primary concern is survival.
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As long as you're alive, your brain considers your current strategies, however unhappy you are, as successful.
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That's why it encourages you to avoid change and stick with what you know. But it wasn't always the case.
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Childlike Curiosity
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As kids, we loved exploring and asking questions. We thrived on the new and unknown. Ask your parents how many times you asked "What?", "Why?", and "How?"
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Over the years, many of us have traded our curiosity for safety and comfort. Yet, to live life to the fullest, we must explore, expand, and excel. That doesn't happen without change. So we need to rekindle that childlike inquisitive spirit.
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But if you leave it to your brain, you'll remain confined to your comfort zone. The brain keeps you from exploring to keep you out of danger. It is your spirit pulling you forward to discover and create something new.
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So, change is uncomfortable, not hard.
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Staying stagnant in the same place for the rest of your life? Now, that's hard.
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The Perfect Time to Start
You might be thinking, "Alright, I get it, but I need to prepare before I can make a change."
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There's never a perfect time to start.
There's always a perfect time to start.
Both statements hold true simultaneously.
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It's your choice which one you embrace.
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One frees you from complacency, while the other keeps you tethered to your current circumstances. Only you can bring change into your life. You can stay put, or you can step out—it's your call.
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Trick Your Brain into Action
Now, let's tackle the "how" of change.
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Your brain often tries to convince you that change is complex, time-consuming, and impossible. It does this to dodge the allocation of resources to uncertain efforts.
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But here's how you can take charge and keep your brain in check: trick it!
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Don't overthink it. Take these simple actions every day:
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- DO 1 Simple Thing Now:
Start with something small that nudges you towards your desired outcome. For instance, if you want a healthier body, do 5 squats or enjoy a crunchy carrot. These small steps build momentum.
- LEARN 1 Fact:
Seek knowledge that helps you understand your new goal better. For instance, if you're pursuing a healthier body, explore the difference between nasal and mouth breathing. Every bit of knowledge empowers you.
- MAKE 1 Step Toward a Complex Task:
Commit to taking one step, no matter how tiny, toward a more complex task. It could be as simple as reading one page of a relevant book. These small actions add up over time.
Change is not a monumental challenge; it's a series of manageable steps. By tricking your brain into action, you can overcome the discomfort of change and progress towards your goals.
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So, the choice is yours: stay put where you are, or take that first step towards the change you desire. The road may be new, but it's the way to grow, be happy, and live well.
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Here's my tip for today:
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Embrace change one step at a time.
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Change may feel uncomfortable, but it's the path to growth and fulfilment. Start with small actions, seek knowledge, and take gradual steps toward your goals.
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Remember, change is a series of manageable steps, and you have the power to shape your future. So, take that first step towards the life you desire.
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Feel free to adjust it to fit your style and preferences.
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That’s all for today. May you find the courage to embrace change and as you embark on your journey of change, remember that you can 'try this at home'—take those small steps, seek knowledge, and commit to progress.
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Lubo
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Lubo
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