We all change. Throughout life, we become different people. Generally these are small changes that have a cumulative effect, although sometimes they are drastic transformations that completely convulse our lives.
However, in a general sense we have a tendency to cling to what is known and follow the law of minimum effort to save energy, which is why we often postpone necessary changes or simply do not find the courage to take the plunge. Habits, customs and beliefs can create a very intricate web around us that ties us to what is known.
However, there are also some moments in life when we are more likely to change and grow.
When is a life change most likely to occur?
1. When we have suffered enough to change
Pain is a powerful motive for change. When we are plunged into a devastating situation that causes us great discomfort, sooner or later we understand that we have to do something to get out of that point. It is the most painful change, but also the most powerful and often the most radical and lasting.
When we hit bottom emotionally, we are left with only two options: keep going deeper into that abyss or fight to get to the surface. That struggle leads to life change. If we are able to make sense of our suffering, that painful experience can be a valuable fuel for accelerating our transformation.
2. When we have seen enough to be inspired
We all present some resistance to personal change. We know that change requires effort and sacrifice. But, above all, we know that it often involves a high degree of uncertainty. It is precisely this lack of certainty that keeps us tied to the known. However, seeing the change in another person can be enough for us to take the first step.
When a person achieves the change we want, his transformation not only has a motivating effect, showing us that it is possible, but by acting as an “explorer” of this new terrain, it also helps us dispel the fog of uncertainty. When we see something that inspires us, it can ignite a spark within us that leads us to embark on the path of change.
3. When we have learned enough to change
Unless we dare to embark on an adventure without a parachute, many changes require prior preparation. A professional change, for example, usually requires months or even years of study. This type of life change does not usually come overnight, but is carefully prepared, the fruit of a conscious decision and hard work.
When we set ourselves an objective and draw up an action plan, we make sure that we develop the necessary skills and accumulate the knowledge that will sustain that change. At that moment, when we feel safe and we have the conditions ready, we can seize the opportunity and put into practice the change in life that we so long for. In fact, taking consistent action not only makes us feel more confident, but also greatly increases our chances of success. This way we do not run the risk of ending up with a handful of flies in hand.
4. When we have detected an interesting opportunity
Sometimes life change comes even though we are not fully prepared. Sometimes opportunity knocks on our door without warning. If we are able to perceive that occasion and free ourselves from fear, we can take advantage of it and embark on a new path.
Generally these are unique opportunities, like that train that only passes once in a lifetime and we must decide whether to get on or stay on the platform. They are vital forks that push us to make important decisions and usually promote a change in our lifestyle or conception of the world.
5. When we have suffered enough pressure to change life
This life change is probably the most questionable. However, vital transformations do not always come from an internal need, sometimes the catalysts for change are fundamentally external. Sometimes, it is the circumstances or the people around us who exert pressure for us to take a certain course.
This type of life change is particularly dangerous as it can eventually lead to deep dissatisfaction and frustration. However, there are also times when external pressures can have a positive influence, such as when the person has embarked on a self-destructive path, in which case the change is life-saving and can generate deep well-being over time.
