Is Change A Good Idea? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions

Most people don’t like change…they resist it or fight it because they find comfort in the familiar – and change is anything but familiar.

Whether we like it or not, change is happening all around us. Sometimes it’s the result of our choices or consequences. Sometimes it comes out of nowhere and smacks us up aside the head.

Then there are times we just get that feeling, and wonder… is it time for a change?

Here are five questions to help determine if you should make a change or not.

1.     Will I be Un/happy in the long run?

Will the change make your life more fulfilling or satisfying?

Will it result in less stress or pain?

Will you gain a deeper sense of peace and happiness?

Are you considering making this change as a way to escape something that you should face?

To answer these questions, spend time thinking about what you want from life. What kind of life do you want to create? What kind of person do you want to become? What are your beliefs, standards and values? And what are some of your dreams?

Life should bring you joy.

If you feel like you’re existing, surviving or “doing time,” perhaps a change is in order. But don’t change for change sake alone. Use change constructively to build and create the kind of life you want to live.

2.     Will making a change support my goals?

Once you’ve figured out what kind of life you want to live you can start identifying some of your short-term, medium, and long-term goals.

Achieving goals takes action – action that will probably require you to make some changes. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone when the action you’re taking results in a better life.  And remember, as your life changes your goals might, too. Growth is a process. So be ready to adjust your goals.

3.     Do I really want this?

If you’re thinking about making a change make sure it’s a change that YOU want for your life. As a general rule of thumb, don’t make a change just to please someone else. Don’t live your life to please other people. Live your life.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other people. Avoid comparing or competing. Work on improving your life and being a better person today than you were yesterday. You’re only competition is with yourself.

Focus on your life and progress. Be proud and grateful of your achievements.

4. Will this change make my life better?

Ask yourself if making a change will improve your life in some way. Whether the change is big or small, it should make your life better, easier, less stressful, happier or more pleasant.

5. Is fear keeping me from making the change

While it’s okay to feel afraid, it isn’t okay to be controlled by fear.  Lean into your fear and face whatever is giving you butterflies. Take a deep breath and move forward courageously.  Once you’ve done the thing, you’ll be stronger and at peace.

In Summary

Change is a part of life – some is wanted and some is unwanted. Regardless, you have the choice to take charge and do your best to create the kind of life you want to live.

If you choose to do nothing, you’ll watch life pass you by from the sidelines; you’ll never really feel fulfilled or content.

We’re either moving forward or slipping backwards. So choose to embrace change and grow. Take charge of change to live your best life; don’t let change take charge of you.

Photo by Paul Skorupskas on Unsplash