Conviction

It’s easy to tell yourself a story that you don’t like change, or you’re not good with it, or that you’re happy with things staying the same. But, the truth is, change happens all the time in life, whether or not you think you’re ‘good’ at it. Few of us thrive on uncertainty, but your mental narrative can influence just how tolerable change can seem.

Change always comes with the chance of failing but, deep down, you know that’s how you learn. If you’re always encouraging others to make a leap, isn’t it time to have just as much faith in yourself? The key to learning to tolerate the uncertainty of change is to start small and experiment with making changes, even if you still have doubts. By treating yourself with self-compassion, instead, and dialling down blame and shame, you’re more likely to uncover the source of your doubt. For many, it’s fear – our critical, negative voice that tells us we’ll mess up is ultimately trying to protect us, albeit in a counter-productive way. Rather than wrestling with these thoughts, try thanking them, then inviting them to take a step back while you take charge and venture out of your comfort zone.