Embarking on change - what is it that we’re waiting for?

So, what is it that we’re actually waiting for? There is a point in time which sits between the desire for change and the moment we decide to take action. A moment, a week, a lifetime of waiting.

Why do we wait to make changes?

Often we know, in our hearts and intuitively, that something isn't right, that we want a different direction and a new chapter for ourselves…
 
Yet we are waiting for the day or point in the future, when everything is exactly where it needs to be before we take the leap, initiate the change, start to say no, move away from expectations, leave the job we don’t like and put ourselves first and so on. When everything feels right before we take the leap. Perhaps we want to initiate a change, start saying no, move away from others' expectations, leave a job we don't enjoy or begin putting our own needs first.

 The risk here is that the perfect point in the future isn’t real. It doesn’t exist, for any of us. So if we keep waiting for it, our days become weeks and they become months and we say no to risks which could reveal the exact opportunity that we need, but don’t see.

Of course, there are times when waiting is sensible. Some decisions require preparation, financial security or more information before we can move forward. The challenge is recognising when we're giving ourselves the time we need and when we're waiting for a level of certainty that may never come.
 
We often tell ourselves that one day we'll feel ready, or we'll feel more secure or have the resources, qualifications and courage to make choices that aren't underpinned by fear. Of course, we have some healthy, reasonable fear which stops us from making decisions that may not be right for us. Rather than trying to eliminate fear, perhaps we can explore what it's telling us. Is it highlighting a genuine concern that needs addressing, or are we making assumptions about what might happen? Understanding the difference can help us consider opportunities with greater clarity.

What's holding you back from taking the first step?

Take a moment to reflect and consider:

• What is one thing you would like to do but have perhaps talked yourself out of it before even exploring the possibility?
• Where in life, if you had a little more self-belief, would you make different choices for yourself?
• When was the last time that you really wanted to do something but didn't? (new job, new house, new relationships, new shoes!) What are the stories and reasons you gave yourself to not pursue this?

Once you've reflected on these questions, consider one small step you could take to explore a possibility further. This doesn't have to mean making a big decision. It might be researching an option, having a conversation with someone who has relevant experience or finding out what information you need before moving forward.

Now, consider who are you listening to when you don't feel ready to make plans and embark on change?

Is it only your own view that you are hearing or perhaps external influences stop you from exploring your options? It is so common for many of us to allow other people's expectations and opinions to interrupt our thinking, no matter how well intended they may be. Parents, friends and family can happily offer their point of view, but sometimes it isn't quite what we need to move forward. 

Or, perhaps our internal negative dialogue (that many of us experience) becomes a consideration, our inner critic can be very noisy!

If any of this resonates, take comfort that it is a common challenge, taking time to understand what's holding you back may help you make decisions that feel right for you. You don't have to feel completely certain or confident before exploring what might be possible.

The coaching space offers the perfect place to explore all of this - a space free of judgement, free of opinion and advice. Perhaps now is the time to listen to intuition and connect to your purpose and make meaningful change? 
 
Maybe you're ready to start today! What is one step, conversation or thought pattern you could start exploring today, that could help you move towards the change you want, at a pace that feels right for you?