Can People Really Change for the Better?

We all know people who have gone from “good” to “bad”, or from “bad” to “worse.” But have we really known people who have changed for the better.

I would bet we can point to one or two, here or there through our lifetimes that have changed for the better. While personality traits are usually with us for our lifetime, those traits can be molded in different ways.

Change is really dependent on life circumstances, including influences in our lives, and personal experiences.

What influences people to change for the better? Do people suddenly wake up and realize they could be better persons, or do better in life? Or, is this a gradual awakening? People can, and do change. Here are some of the ways people can accomplish major life changes for the better:

• Realizing that you need to change. Are you in a lifestyle that is not bringing you enjoyment? Do you recognize some things about yourself that is holding you back in relationships or work, or both? Realize your effect on your family, friends and colleagues. Have they been avoiding you? Have they seemed upset with you? Once you “admit” you need to change, you are taking the first step to change those things that need changing.

• Make a positive action plan. If you need to lose weight so that you’re healthier, plan to seek the help of a nutritionist or physician. If you realize your attitude and grudges are holding you back in relationships, examine why you have this attitude and that the grudges are a heavy burden to carry and still be pleasant to others. Make a plan to be aware of how you approach others in home and work situations.

• Surround yourself with positive people and events. The camaraderie of good friends with whom you can share your thoughts and feelings can go a long way to help you feel better about yourself and have a better attitude.

• Don’t try to change all at once. You may be frustrated by trying to do too much at once. Take small, but significant steps. Prioritize what you need to and want to change.

• If you are on the path to change, try to measure how you are succeeding? Are people getting closer to you? Do you feel better about your self and your life situation? How much further do you want to go?

Realize that you have control over a good part of your life. Your attitudes, your feelings, and your habits play a significant role in how you will fare in life. Fostering good attitudes and feelings and having good habits is the way to lead you to positive change.

Check out these motivational books that might help you in your quest to change: The Power of Positive Habits (Abritt Publishing Group, 2003), by Dan Arbey; Loving: Tapping Your Spiritual Source, by Catherine Corona (Infinite Horizons Press, 2003).

Photo by ladyb, flickr.com