Change
Real change means to discover and transform yourself. Change is self discovery, because deep down you do not know who or what the real you is. It is beyond body and mind, health and wealth, name and fame. In order to discover who you are, you have to make changes that shed the layers of clouds that cover your eyes – it could be fears, anger, low self-esteem, personal issues, financial worries, and an endless list which are not you - yet you believe them to be you. Once these layers are removed, you are able to experience true happiness.
Change is also transformational because nothing in this universe is constant. The world is constantly changing, people are changing and you are evolving daily. You know that seven days ago, you have somehow changed, yet you have remained the same. Change is growth.
This book is an intensive guide to help you peel away the layers of emotional, mental and physical blocks that keep you from knowing yourself.
The Real You
To know who the real you is you must first realize what you are not. Although you might have anger in your heart, you are not your anger. Although you might be wealthy or poor, you are not your money. Although you might have imperfect or perfect skin, you are not your body. The list can go on and on.
The real you is beyond emotion and mind and unaffected by pain and suffering. It is like a light which is very pure, innocent, and at peace. It is called the soul.
Because emotions and mind fluctuate from one moment to the next, we know that is not us. Like an ocean, once we dive deep beyond the splashing surface waves, we experience true calmness and peace. Our emotions and mind keep us from diving to the bottom of real self.
The Need for Personal Transformation
Without changing our habits of identifying ourselves with our thoughts and feelings, we will constantly sway throughout life not ever experiencing true happiness. However, if we find ways to understand our feelings and nature of our mind, we can be less affected and bring true joy into our life.
Change is a process of knowing our true self. Without changing our habits, ideology, or the emotions we cling to, the layers of clouds will not dissolve. Change leads to inner truth and peace.
Process of Change
Change first begins with identification of a problem or issue – mental, emotional or physical. Once you have awareness of the issue, then you will be able to take baby steps to help improve various aspects of your life. Remember, change is a gradual, but continual process.
Awareness to Change
Real change requires self awareness, which is the ability to discern in an intense moment between right or wrong in order to transcend the moment. For example, if you are in an argument and you know you have a habit of using abusive language, before you say the bad word, you become aware and decide not to use such language because you know it can result in someone being hurt. Self awareness is a phenomenon that happens in a single moment. Change occurs, when self awareness increases and is sustained throughout the day.
Excuses to Change
Change is often talked about at the beginning of the New Year because people want to start off their year with positive thinking and high goals. After a few days into the New Year a person may have given up on themselves because they realize it is very difficult to change. It is important to know the common excuses not to change, as they might arise in your own mind during your 31 days of challenges. Common excuses are:
Not enough time. Many are under the impression that change requires a lot of time, and they do not have it. Change does require time, but 2 -5 minutes each day to dedicate towards a changed you, is not too time consuming.
Requires too much energy. Being lazy is only an excuse to deter you from achieving transformation. Change requires self discipline, effort and passion. Energy should be put in towards a better life and realizing true happiness.
Results are slow. Change is gradual and it is not necessary the fruits of your effort will show in an hour, the next day, or year. Real change is a lifetime of continuous effort because there is always something to change. Do not give up on yourself.
No inspiration or support. The most important person that needs to believe you can change is YOU. Many will resist your personal changes towards the good because deep down they feel they are unable to do it, so they may not show support of your new endeavors. Remember, change is for you and by you. You never know you might inspire them to change, too.
Positive change is a sign of weakness. When you change yourself and your ways, you might fear that you become weak in the eyes of your family, friends and society. Goodness does not equal weakness. Only the strong-willed and courageous are able to change and you should be proud of yourself.
No need to change. Resistance to change arises because you refuse to accept there are aspects of your life that need to be changed. Once the wall of resistance comes down, your eyes will open to many areas of your life that need improvement. Change happens when you are humble to yourself and others.
You have the power and ability to change yourself. By changing yourself you inspire others to change, too. Reading and completing each of the daily challenges will help you in different aspects of your life. Although this guide is appears very simple, it is very intense. It is designed to help you discover who you are, your purpose, areas of your life that need change, and how to change them.
Believe in yourself, because I believe in you.
(End of Chapter)
