What would it take for you to make a change?
How often have you heard that after someone experienced a near-death experience or a rock bottom they decided to shift their life in a drastic way? I find that most often when I hear about profound transformations it is after something significant has occurred. But why does it have to be that way? Why do we have to experience something drastic before we finally realize we need to make a change?
To leave a relationship.
To quit a job.
To live life with purpose.
To finally follow your dreams.
Research shows us that people experience life-lasting changes after traumatic events because the of the emotional arousal. The intense fear, anxiety and uncertainty can act as a catalyst to promote motivation and commitment.
One research study of over 600 trauma survivors found that more than half reported that their life had changed for the better after their traumatic experience. They felt a greater inner strength, enhanced connections with family and friends, found more meaning in life and were in the pursuit of goals that would lead to greater fulfillment. This phenomenon is known as Post-Traumatic Growth.
“Growth begins with healing from trauma—it is not a free pass to avoid suffering. But, as researchers now know, people have the capacity to do far more than just heal. Given the right environment and mindset, they can change, using the trauma, the suffering and struggle that ensues, as an opportunity to reflect, to search for meaning in their lives, to ultimately become better versions of themselves (Rendon, J. How Trauma Can Change You For the Better. Time.com. Jul 2015).”
I think it is a powerful reminder for trauma survivors that you get to make the choice how you want to be impacted by your experiences. You can struggle with long-lasting suffering or you can choose to heal and turn your negative experiences into something good.
Jeremy Booth left his job in finance after the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001 to become a firefighter. He is now a captain with the Fire Department in California.
Thomas Dugan made it his mission to teach high school students about the tragedy of the attacks on 9/11. He said these kids weren’t even alive and don’t understand the significance of that day. He said it is harder and harder the further we get from that date but he feels it is his responsibility to instill the notion that we will “Never Forget”.
Jessica Tanner is the daughter of a first responder for the 9/11 attacks. The duties of her father and the overall impact led to her pursuing a career in counseling.
(Stories courtesy of CNN, How did your world change after 9/11? 2021).
But what about those who haven’t experienced trauma? How can you find the catalyst for change without a life-altering event?
Unless you can identify the consequences of your current behavior or feel so uncomfortable you have no option but to change, you will likely remain the same. We are creatures of habit and we like what is familiar to us.
When was the last time you tried something new?
When did you last feel out of your comfort zone?
What would it look like to live a more fulfilling life?
If you could change one thing in your life today, what would it be?
Consider the prompts above and see if they help you identify potential areas of change in your life. If you continue to do the same things day in and day out, you will never experience anything new. You will never experience change that may lead to unknown and potentially greater opportunities.
Studies have shown that people who have learned to become comfortable with change, more adaptable and flexible, are happier than those who resist it.
Maybe its time to take a risk. Maybe it is time to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. It is only through discomfort and change that growth is truly possible.
Send me an email and let me know the greatest change you experienced in your life. What prompted it? Did you know that your current life was a possibility before your catalyst to change?