Last week we talked about turning turmoil into opportunity. I shared research that shows that even when faced with the reality that they must change or die, 90% of heart bypass patients don’t alter their behavior. I promised that today we were going to answer WHY.
Through more than 25 years coaching people to change, I have heard every imaginable excuse about why people don’t change. I’m sure you have heard them too. Here are just a few examples:
- It's too difficult!
- There is nothing I can do about it.
- It would take too long.
- I’m too busy.
- I have tried many times, I really can’t do it.
- That’s the way I am.
- It’s impossible because I don’t get any support around here.
- It’s not worth the effort.
- Insert your own. . .
What it amounts to is that because of life circumstances, or what important people in their life have told them, many people learn early that they are helpless. As much as they don’t like to feel this way, it is an easy out, because it does not require any effort.
The main reason people don't change is they hate to discover they are wrong. They don't want to change the way they think and make the effort to do something different!
It’s not that change is so difficult. In fact, your brain is wired for change. You were born to change!
What is difficult is to
- stop making excuses,
- decide to take personal responsibility,
- know exactly what to do, and
- have the willpower to stick to the plan.
Next week we will share how you can open spaces where being wrong is not a crime, creativity and opportunity can thrive, and where innovation happens as a result.
Remember. . .
Being wrong is nothing to be ashamed of. On the other hand, not making changes can be deadly!
Choose life and transformation!
If you know in your heart you need to consider making changes, Contact me today to discuss your situation and explore some options.
Photo by: craigfinlay