I’ve often heard that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results.  And yet, human beings like their routines.  Most of us travel the same way to work everyday and weave patterns of familiarity into our day.  In any organization, one of the most common (and dangerous) phrases echoing throughout the building is “…because we’ve always done it that way.” 

Changing the way we work, run our businesses, think, interact with others, or live our life means consciously choosing to do something different, understanding that the consequence may be a little discomfort. As my cross-country coach too often said, “No pain, no gain!” 

Ahh, but the question I get asked most is, “Isn’t there an easier, simpler formula?”  I suppose we’re all looking for the agent of change powder drink with a new and improved flavor.

I help people get from where they are to where they want to be in business and in life using the 5 pillars of excellence in upside thinking.  My clients are already successful; however, they’re looking for more…..more influence, more money, more happiness, success, and meaning.  Whether they work for an organization or are self-employed or a student graduating from college, whether it is a personal goal or dream, the process is the same.  In the beginning, every client wants the cliff note version of how to get what they want and make real changes.  In the end, every client has recognized that it is by jumping the hurdles, not avoiding them, that they create lasting change.

In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy, the Lion, and the Tin Man were all searching for a change to occur and hoping that someone else could make that change happen.  My clients truly understand that the only one who can create change in their lives is the person looking back at them in the mirror!

How often do you evaluate where you are and whether you need to make a significant change in your life?  Do you willingly create opportunities for change and make it easy for others to change, too?

We all only get one chance at this life of ours.  This month, I challenge you to make a list of the things in your life you would like to change.  For some of you, you may think you’ve already “arrived” and don’t need to change a thing.  For others, the list in your head may be so long you don’t know where to start.  Here are a few ideas….maybe it’s the way you think about people who are different from you, or about your beliefs about money, or what your priorities are in life, or where you are in your business. 

As Mahatma Ghandi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” and remember, there is always room to change because unlimited possibilities are all around you!