“Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of staying still” - Tony Robbins

Pain can be a strong motivator for change. For instance, the pain of health problems may encourage someone to exercise or eat healthier. But pain is not necessary for change to occur and is not the only motivator for change to occur.

Insight can also stimulate change.

Greater understanding of the problem can also facilitate change.

For instance, someone who isolates may do so because of fear of rejection. By understanding this, they can learn to engage with their fear and confront it as they attempt to start a new relationship.

Competency and confidence can also help.

Continuing this example, the development of communication skills and confidence in that can help facilitate new friendships.

But none of these actually cause change until…

you actually go out there and do the thing, even when it’s difficult, especially when it is difficult. Because that hard thing you might have been avoiding that you know is good for you just might be the thing you need to do for the change you desire for your life.

Insight, motivation, competency, & confidence are all important factors, but the most important part of change is action.

My work

Yoojin Nam LMFT is the author of Thinking to Feel. He has been providing psychotherapy for 7 years and is licensed to practice in CA & TX.

Wondering if therapy might benefit you? E-mail [email protected] to schedule a free consultation.

Disclaimer: These posts are not a replacement for therapy. The information contained within is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be therapeutic advice.