We live in fascinating and interesting times, with a lot of rapid change and opportunity taking place. So much possibility can be very exciting and empowering, but it can also feel overwhelming and even provoke fear, a sense of uncertainty and self-doubt. Many believe the ideas that change is hard or change is scary, and some believe it’s downright dangerous. This creates the perfect environment to resist forward movement or to sabotage the very change we desire.

During these “stuck” moments, it’s helpful to pause and take in another perspective. Change is beautiful and powerful and has the ability to liberate individuals from what they have outgrown, what is no longer adding joy and fulfillment or what is out of alignment with new hopes, desires and dreams. 

Old paradigms break down in order for change and new paradigms to break through. The breakdown process takes on many expressions and can usher individuals into more self-potential. 

For example, a job that was once cherished may suddenly be causing us to feel stuck, unmotivated and downright unhappy. At the thought of moving forward, fear speaks up and lists all the reasons to stay put. We downplay our brilliance while silencing the desire to find something to evoke new growth, invigoration, meaning and inspiration. Or maybe we’re ignoring an inner voice screaming to add ourselves to the top of the priority list, depleted from pouring energy into the business, family, household and to-do list. This overwhelm partners with fear and convinces us that money can dry up if we don’t keep working at this fast pace, and only when the kids leave the house will we be a priority.

All of this worry and pressure tends to eventually build up enough to cause a major event, or breakdown, thereby making way for positive changes. However, it is not necessary to reach complete breakdown before implementing change. Here are some indicators that change is knocking on our door.

Internal feelings of dissatisfaction. Experiencing the blahs and dreading going to work or home.

Numbing out with eating, drinking, shopping, television or social media. It’s natural to want to feel quick relief, and it’s easy to get stuck here. Compulsive behavior is a sign that we’re battling the voice of reason with our heart’s desires.

  Putting on extra pounds. Oftentimes when denying or resisting change, we’ll exercise less and become more stationary.

We’re tired of merely surviving. We know on a fundamental level that life is meant to be experienced, enjoyed and shared in loving ways. Yet, we feel like we’re constantly struggling to survive, working and paying bills, with little life enjoyment.

Procrastination. We put off tasks that really aren’t that involved.

Glorification of busyness. Many people brag about being busy, but are they making their hearts sing, or do they simply create a false sense of accomplishment?

Playing it safe. Increased insecurities and negative self-talk become the common inner voice as we consider stepping out of something that’s no longer fulfilling.

Tools to help navigate change with more ease and impact:

• Be present and aware. Be aware that priorities are changing and make it a point to explore some new insights, interests, ideas or hobbies.

• Get into nature. Take a restorative hike or find a great place to be outdoors. Taking shoes off and feeling the earth on bare feet (called “Earthing”) centers and grounds us, bringing clarity and a sense of confidence.

• Slow down and take some personal space. Many think if they slow down, everything will pile up and cause more stress, but the opposite is true. Using that time to write in a journal or take a gentle yoga class will help us to become clearer and more grounded, freeing energy tied up in worry, procrastination or fear.

• Breathe. Intentional deep breathing throughout the day calms and restores the nervous system, leading to new insights and possibilities. Incorporate breathing rituals while at a stoplight, waiting in line somewhere, preparing dinner and before falling asleep.

•Hire a coach. An especially supportive approach to navigate transition and growth is through an experienced coach. Coaches help individuals to make lasting changes in a much quicker timeframe, using established techniques, tools, processes and programs, while providing the benefits of partnership, accountability and safety.

Jeanette Gibler is a life coach and business coach, certified in Awaking Excellence and Empowerment Coaching. She is a keynote speaker and facilitates women’s wisdom circles and empowerment trainings. Gibler brings practical and cutting-edge transformational techniques and tools to her clients to support them living in their highest potential. Gibler’s next Warrior Goddess Training Program begins on May 20. Call for details. Connect at 520-730-9277 or JeanetteGibler.com. See ad, page 10.