Ready to turn over a new leaf? 4 truths about changing for the better

I realize I have strengths. Just like I have weaknesses. But the other day, I was frustrated. I wanted to be better. I wanted to change. When it came to my issues with participating and socializing, it was time to turn over a new leaf. And this girl’s night was the perfect place to start. But change… it’s just not easy. Change within ourselves? Sheesh, that’s even harder!

So I spent all day finding my courage and mentally preparing myself to step out of my comfort zone. I wish I could say that when 6:00 rolled around, I bravely walked out the door and embraced this positive step forward. But I didn’t. When the moment of truth came, I totally hesitated and started fumbling for excuses. Same old, same old. Then came my oh-so-insightful husband’s response, “Well, are you going to turn over a new leaf? or are you going to stay cuddled under the leaf?” Wow!

I thought I liked being safe and warm, “cuddled under the leaf” like Matt had pointed out, but I miraculously made it to that girl’s night and man, it felt good! I made some new friends; I came home feeling energized and happy; and I felt stronger for doing something that was hard. It left me feeling ready and excited to push myself (not too much, but enough) to make changes for the better.

And I couldn’t be more grateful for family and friends who love me enough to push me to be my best self. Lessons learned when it comes to forming a new habit, making a change for the better, or doing something that’s out of your comfort zone:

1. Surrounding yourself with people who love and support you certainly isn’t necessary, but my goodness, it makes a world of difference!
2. The first step is often the hardest. Sometimes it’s easier to break it down into even smaller steps. Rather than deciding to get up and go exercise, for example, just decide to change into your workout clothes and go outside. Once you’re outside, just walk to the corner… before you know it, you’ve walked a mile!
3. Sometimes one little change is all it takes to get the momentum you need to take you in the right direction. The smallest and simplest changes in our lives can bring about life-changing results.
4. Seriously, give yourself some credit. You’re strong. You’re capable. And most of all, you know this change within yourself is going to make you even better. So go for it! You won’t regret it.

Share this image and spread some encouragement into the world.