How to Gain More Control of Your Life
Oftentimes, people think that profound steps are required to change their lives. I believe that there is nothing profound about change or improvement. It comes about through a step-by-step process that any person can achieve if they are simply willing.
The first step of this process is to truly be aware that you even want to change. What habits and attitudes are not serving you anymore? Is it the fact that you are allowing past traumas and difficulties to weigh you down? Have you realized that you do not want to feel so anxious or depressed anymore? Are your habits the culprit- spending hours utilizing technology, not feeling productive, and feeling as though there is no way out?
The fact is that many of us, including myself, have experienced these common life occurrences, but not many people realize that they have been on autopilot for most of their lives. You may be convinced that this is just the way things are, and do not even realize that your constant stress, lack of motivation, or other symptoms are preventing you from living the life you fully deserve. By simply becoming aware of these destructive habits, things will start to improve.
How does this happen? Awareness allows you to observe in a somewhat detached way. It stops you from completely identifying with your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and gives you the insight to realize how you may be self-sabotaging. Awareness gives you the power to be present and focus on the only thing you do have control over- how you choose to behave and think in the present moment. This can be intensely liberating. I know it has been for me.
So how is awareness achieved?
There are many different levels of awareness. The first is simply noticing. Then, there are other deeper methods such as meditation, yoga, physical activity, mindfulness (mindful eating, walking, talking), and journaling, to name a few. All of these activities encourage a present moment awareness of your mind, body, senses, and/or thoughts. The key is to not attempt to change what is currently happening, but to fully accept what is happening, right now.
One way to start is by meditating for just five minutes a day. My favorite meditation apps are Insight Timer, Calm, and Stop Breathe & Think, but these are just a few of many!
I can help you go deeper to achieve this mindset if you are ready. Please contact me for a free phone consultation to determine if counseling is the right option for you.
