Q – How many psychiatrists does it take to change a light bulb?
A – Just one. But it takes a long time, and the light bulb has to want to change.

I’ve been in the throes of some big external changes. Things are settling down, and I’m settling in, but there are other changes I still seek… internal ones. And I want the results to come quicker than they seem to be coming. I was thinking about all of this in the shower this morning (proven to be one of the best places to think) and a light bulb went off in my head.

WHAT specifically about the external changes I’ve accomplished can I apply to speed up the internal changes I want to make?

1. Change “HAVE TO” to “WANT TO.”  We don’t have to do anything other than pay taxes and die. It’s the pressure we place on ourselves that often makes things difficult. Focus on WHY you want to make this change and how you will FEEL when you make it.
2. Remind yourself that it’s not “IF” it’s “WHEN.”
3. Change “I WANT TO” to “I AM.”  Rather than saying, “I want to…”  or “I wish I…” say “I am.” There is a lot of power in those two words… I AM.
4. Make SMALL CHANGES, and let yourself WIN. For example, rather than setting a weight loss goal for a BIG change,  start with just five pounds. Then five more, and five more.
5. MEASURE any changes you want to make by the WEEK. Know the steps you will take DAILY. Stay present and savor every day along the way.
6. Remember: if anybody else CAN DO this, or has done this, so can YOU.