Stalking the Change

Lately, it seems like everyone I know is contemplating some big change:  Another job.  A "get healthy" plan.  Remodeled kitchen.  New car.  New baby.

Maybe it's the time of year.  We instinctively feel the toll of those midnight chimes approaching.  The winds of change beckon us with the thought of hanging that shiny new 2012 calendar.

And yet, everyone has something holding them back just beyond the walls of actual action.  They are doing a lot of thinking and worrying, but not much more.  They feel distracted and overwhelmed.

The advice I give to my sisters, my friends, my co-workers (and to you) is what my dad used to always say to me in similar situations:   

Hey dad, I want a new car.  I'm thinking of switching schools. Maybe I'll grow a tail and dye my hair blue.

He'd always say, "Well, gathering information is free.   Get educated and then come talk me."

Gathering information is free.  And, freeing.

It is always empowering to explore what it would take to make the change, map the steps, talk to other people who have done it (or who decided not to) and get educated. 

Stalking the change sheds light on those shadows of doubt, fear and insecurity.    

Got all the information and still not sure what to do?

Another question to ask yourself is about permanence.  "If you do this thing, can you undo it later if you find out it was the wrong decision?"

Children and tattoos are permanent.   Jobs, hairstyles and gym memberships can always be changed again.

Make your decision with information and perspective.  And just do it.  Or don't.  It's your choice - but do choose one way or another. 

Carpe diem!






PS:  I'm on Twitter now!  @BeamingBalance

Perspective

I just heard a great story in a meeting that would otherwise have been an hour of my life I'd never get back.  Let me know if it resonates with you as it did with me:

Two sales reps get sent to a remote village to see if there is an opportunity to sell shoes.

Shortly after arrival, the first salesperson calls headquarters and says, “Stop shipment! Not a single villager wears shoes so there’s zero opportunity. We will never sell shoes here.”

Two minutes later, the second sales rep calls headquarters and says, “Send me everything you’ve got! None of these villagers have shoes so there is an incredible opportunity to sell shoes here!”

Two different people with two different views on the same situation.  One sees scarcity and hopelessness where the other sees opportunity and abundance.

Perspective makes all the difference.