(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

It’s hard to give up. Giving up can feel like defeat or resignation, maybe even like being a victim. Giving up is always accompanied by a sense of loss.

But when you want to change something, most of the time that involves giving something up. That giving up is one of the things that makes change so hard.

Choosing to change is a different deal. When you choose you are in charge of your destiny. To be “at choice” is one of the big payoffs of a life well lived.

So, how do you choose to change? By finding and focusing on the benefits that will accrue to you as a result of the change. Most people focus on what they will lose or give up if they change. Identifying what you will gain will help you choose to change.

 

Copyright 2001 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.