Reading a motivational piece, whether it is a book or a post you saw on social media, might give you the go you need at that moment. It might make you leave that cosy blanket you’ve been wrapped up on and that Netflix show you’ve been watching all day long. It can only do so much. But it is your mindset, the thoughts to which you conform on a daily basis, that help you sustain that motivation. How many times have you found yourself feeling motivated, but it only lasts a day or two? Heck, even a few hours, and then you go back to the same things that hold you back all the time, whether it’s your phone or television, and you make up this story in your head to justify why you are doing the opposite of what you planned. It happens to me, too. I have tried so many different techniques and read motivational books, but I always find myself being led back to my old habits. What do they say, by the way? Old habits die hard. Do I believe that? Yes, I definitely do. Should it be something that’s always on your mind? No. Because what is always in your thoughts is what you start to believe, and hence, you will really find it hard to break old habits if you always think that they die hard- it all starts with your thoughts.

Change is to transform or to become different. I believe most of us want to “change”, to become smarter versions of ourselves, wiser versions of ourselves, and some want to be “beautiful” versions of themselves. Some may say, “I want to be the best version of myself.” What exactly is the best version of a person? While you are still breathing, you have room to grow each and every second, and with that, I don’t believe there is an ultimate best version of a person unless you choose to define your best. I say I want to be a version of myself that I’m proud to flaunt in the mirror.

The change we want to see is different for everybody, and hence, the steps you need to take will be different. We often hear people say,” Be the change you want to see.” But it is not so simple, is it? Change is a process. If you are looking to change something about yourself, you must have a clear reason why and at most, you must see the results. Good results or aimed results help boost your confidence.

Firstly, unpack what your problem is and what is stopping you from being what you want to be. Secondly, what is it that you have been doing wrong all this time? Thirdly, what can you do correctly? But in all this, which I’m sure you’ve heard before but still fumbled, you need to be cautious of your thought process on a daily basis. Morning is the most important part of the day; it gives you the go. If you start your day negatively, it will probably be a dreadful day for you. Be careful of what you take in in the morning and what you engage yourself in since it might just continue throughout the day.

It all starts with a proper mindset, will to work, determination and dedication. Motivation can only carry you so far. Remember why you want to do something more than why people believe you should do it. The process of changing to become a better version of yourself is difficult. It comes with many failures, and that’s why it’s important to evaluate where you went wrong before proceeding with your journey. Break it down for yourself so that you don’t feel overwhelmed, and be realistic to minimise your disappointments. Set goals, or find yourself an accountability partner. Whatever works for you.

Change is not something that happens overnight or just by listening or reading a motivational piece. Change is a process that can take days, months and even years. Focus on the little changes you make each day, and you’ll realise that you will be happier with yourself. Don’t just focus on the end result you want to see because that way, you will feel the process is too slow, which will lead you back to the cycle of negativity you are trying to break. Focus on little improvements and accomplishments, and take time to be grateful to yourself. Consistent gratitude breeds positivity and happiness in our lives. Don’t wait for the destination to be happy, enjoy every moment of the journey. It is not about what awaits you in the end but more about what the journey makes you. What you get by achieving your goals is incomparable to what you become while trying to achieve them.

Walk at your own pace. Take the pill of change in small doses. Think more positively. Be around positive people. People who bring you down are not your people- feel free to cut them off.

Trust your process and God’s timing.