Fall: Change is in The Air

3 Self-Care Strategies to Thrive in Times of Change

“Change is inevitable, growth is optional.”  I first started presenting seminars on CHANGE in 1991, which was another time of economic challenge, though not nearly as intense as this period, now named: “The Great Recession.” I think I’ll reframe that to “The Great Opportunity.”

I don’t know how it is with you and the people in your lives these days, but what I’m noticing is “it’s (by “it” I mean everything) hitting the fan.”  Just a few examples: economic struggle, job loss, break ups, re-negotiating relationships, addiction problems coming to the surface, health problems, aging, babies being born, illness, etc. Whew…let’s all take 10 deep breaths.

If you’re feeling wiped out by the enormity of change that’s occurring personally and culturally, you’re not alone.  The good news is that all of these life events provide us with the opportunity to choose whether we will react out of habitual fear patterns or learn to respond with love, care, compassion and kindness to ourselves and those around us.

Three Self-CARE Strategies to Thrive in Times of CHANGE:

1) Be aware of whether you’re at the beginning, middle or end of a change process.Transition startswith an ending, then a chaotic middle time, andfinally a new beginning. It’s the middle time thatfeels the worst and where we need the most support– a friend, counselor, priest, journal, whatever worksfor you.

2) BE Gentle with yourself. This too shall pass.

(My E-book will be completed by end of 2012/I mean early 2013)

For the Mind: Reframe negative self-talk to positive. For the body: Take 10 breaths, a walk or stretch. Don’t over-indulge any cravings.It just makes you feel worse. For the Spirit: Read an inspirational passage from your favorite spiritual book. For your Emotions: Try the TARA process in Intentional JOY (pg. 164), or Emotional Freedom Technique.

3) DO: Create an action plan based on what you need. For example: Less Money Available. List out expenses and income and see what you can cut. A food budget hint: Make a menu, a list from the menu and shop at a discount grocer.

Paul Zane Pilzer, economist and bestselling author says that the most successful people today will not necessarily be the best but the fastest and I will add – the fastest to change. The great opportunity during these CHANGING times is to get very clear about what is most important to you and to take really good, loving care of yourself, no matter what you’re faced with.

Call (209) 492-8745 with any questions or email me lynntelfordsahl@gmail.com.For those looking for help with addictive concerns checkout my new website: addictionmodesto.com