Roadblocks to Change and How to Overcome Them

Some people will make up excuses, procrastinate, and do anything to avoid change. There are many reasons why people often get stuck in transition. Here are four common reasons why people don't change.

1. They don't want to change. People like to talk about their problems, but talking does not necessarily mean they are willing to change. Change starts with a choice. You will not succeed at making changes unless you are motivated to make them.
2. They don't see the need to change. Some people are not aware that they are part of the problem. Instead, they are more interested in seeing the people around them change. Until they recognize the benefits of changing, they won't change.
3. They don't think they can change. Limiting thoughts like "I can't do it" will cause you to give up before you get started. Proverbs 23:7 says, "As a man thinks within himself, so is he." And, you have probably heard the phrase, "You are what you eat," but what is equally true: "You are what you think." Henry Ford says it this way, "Whether you think you can, or whether you think you are can't, you're right." To succeed at change, you must rewrite the script you tell yourself.
4. They are afraid of the unknown. Some people would rather stay stuck than take a chance at something new. And, I am convinced that most people are not really comfortable in their present situation; they are just more familiar with their situation than the possibility of change. People are not afraid of change; they are afraid of the unknown.

You can overcome any roadblock standing in the way of your progress. One way to succeed is to reprogram your mind. Affirmations are positive statements that inspire positive action. They are a key tool in bringing about change. The railroad engine in "The Little Engine That Could" succeeded by repeating the affirmation, "I think I can." Empowering thoughts will help you feel more powerful and succeed at change.

Here are some suggestions for success affirmations borrowed from Joyce Meyer, author of Battlefield of the Mind.

I am a person of action.

I am decisive.

I am persistent.

I have a responsible attitude.

I am successful in whatever I do.

Repeat these affirmations to yourself regularly as you pursue your change goals for the year.

Cassandra Washington is a career coach who inspires clients to take action toward their career goals. Does your career need a coach? Visit http://www.expandmysuccess.blogspot.com for motivation and guidance for making the changes you want to make. For a limited time, when you sign up for our e-Newsletter at http://www.exceedlearning.com, you will receive a FREE affirmation card so you can carry these positive thoughts with you

(c) Copyright 2008 Cassandra Washington. All rights reserved

Marshall Rosenberg