The Power and Science of Change Transform Your Mindset and Life

 The Power and Science of Change Transform Your Mindset and Life

 

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Today we're diving into something that almost everyone can relate to—why change is so hard. No matter how much we want to grow, improve, or evolve, change often feels like an uphill battle. Whether it’s shifting our daily habits, changing careers, or navigating personal transformations, it’s not easy. So, what is it about change that makes it so difficult? Let’s talk about it."

"Before we dive into the science and psychology of change, let me ask you: when was the last time you tried to change something about yourself or your life? Maybe you tried to pick up a new habit, change your mindset, or even take a big leap in your career. How did it go? Easy? Hard? Well, let me tell you, you’re not alone in feeling like change is a challenge. For many of us, the hardest part is just getting started."

 

Section 1: The Comfort of Routine

"Let’s start with the comfort of routine. Humans are creatures of habit. We like things that are predictable because it helps us conserve energy and avoid stress. When we get comfortable in a routine, it’s like a safety net. Our brain likes it because it doesn't have to work as hard when we're operating on autopilot. So, when we’re asked to change—even if it’s for the better—our brains resist. It’s like switching to a different gear. All of a sudden, we’re using more mental energy, and that puts a little fear in our minds. ,

"Think about it: if you've ever tried to wake up earlier or start exercising regularly, you probably know that the first few days feel like a struggle. Your brain is fighting that change because it sees it as a threat to the stability you've lived with up to this point. It’s exhausting."

 

Section 2: Fear of the Unknown

"Next, let’s talk about something pretty powerful—fear. Change often requires us to step into the unknown. And our brains? Well, they don’t love uncertainty. Think of it like walking into a dark room. You have no idea what’s ahead, so your natural instinct is to avoid it. Fear of failure, fear of not being good enough, or even fear of making the wrong decision—all of these fears can hold us back from taking that first step toward change."

"Have you ever found yourself stuck in a job or relationship, knowing you needed a change but just...stayed? Sometimes, staying in the discomfort we know feels safer than the uncertainty of what could come next. But here’s the kicker—growth happens in that uncertainty."

 

Section 3: Identity and Change

"Now, let’s dive into something deeper—our identity. The thing is, change often challenges who we think we are. If you’ve ever tried to shift your habits or make a big life decision, you may have felt like you were fighting against your own sense of self. We form these beliefs and identities around who we are—‘I’m not a morning person,’ ‘I’m not good with money,’ ‘I’m the shy one.’ And when we try to change, it can feel like we’re challenging the very core of who we are."

"Here’s the thing though: you are not defined by your habits, your job, or even your past. You are capable of evolving, and while that might feel like a threat to the identity you’ve built, it’s actually a sign of growth. Your identity is flexible, and change—though hard—is a way to redefine who you are and who you’re becoming." Identity and the Psychological Struggle

"Now, let’s get a little deeper. One of the biggest hurdles to change is how it challenges our identity. Dr. Don Kelly highlights how change can feel like it’s threatening who we think we are. When we try to change, especially in ways that are meaningful, we may feel like we’re not just changing our habits—we’re altering our very sense of self. Our self-identity is so intertwined with our routines, our jobs, and even our relationships that the idea of changing them feels like losing a part of who we are."

 

Key stages in the emotional cycle of change:

1 Uninformed Optimism:

   At the outset, there's a burst of excitement and enthusiasm about the change. People are energized, and there’s an overwhelmingly positive outlook, often fueled by the idea of progress. However, this optimism tends to be based more on hope than reality, with a tendency to overlook or underestimate the potential challenges, complexities, and obstacles that might arise. It’s the feeling that things will work out smoothly, even though the full picture is not yet clear.

2 Informed Pessimism:

As the reality of the change sets in, initial enthusiasm gives way to the recognition of unforeseen challenges and difficulties. The excitement wanes as individuals begin to realize the true scope of the obstacles ahead. Doubt, frustration, and skepticism start to creep in, causing people to question whether the change is truly worth the effort or if it will be successful at all. With a more informed perspective, the outlook becomes more negative, often focusing on potential setbacks and the complexity of the situation, sometimes leading to a sense of disillusionment.

3 Valley of Despair:

This phase is often regarded as the lowest point in the cycle, where the weight of ongoing challenges and setbacks becomes overwhelming. Frustration and discouragement peak, and the initial hope for change starts to feel distant. People may begin to feel as though progress is impossible, leading to burnout and a desire to give up. The struggle feels relentless, and it’s easy to question whether the change is worth the emotional and mental toll. During this time, motivation can drop significantly, and there may be a pervasive sense of being stuck or unable to move forward.

4 Informed Optimism:

After navigating through the toughest challenges and addressing major obstacles, there’s a noticeable shift toward a more balanced and realistic optimism. The initial struggles are now behind, and with them comes a renewed sense of hope and confidence. Progress becomes tangible, and small victories along the way help rebuild trust in the process. People start to see that change is not only possible, but also sustainable, and they begin to feel more empowered to continue moving forward. This phase blends optimism with a deeper understanding of the effort required, making the outlook more grounded, but still hopeful and forward-looking.

Completion/Integration:

At this stage, the change has been fully embraced and seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life. The new processes, behaviors, or mindset have become second nature, and there's a profound sense of accomplishment in having made it through the journey. Adaptation feels effortless, and the change no longer feels like an external force, but rather an integral part of how things are done. People experience a sense of pride in their growth, and there is often a reflective acknowledgment of how far they’ve come. Challenges that once felt insurmountable are now seen as valuable lessons that helped shape the successful integration of the change. The outcome is a harmonious balance where both individuals and the organization (if applicable) feel transformed and ready to thrive in the new reality.

Important points to remember about the emotional cycle of change:

    Normal to experience fluctuations:

    It's natural to move back and forth between stages during the change process, and not everyone progresses through the cycle at the same pace.

Importance of support:

Having a strong support network can help individuals navigate the challenging emotions associated with change.

 

Managing expectations:

Understanding the emotional cycle can help individuals prepare for potential setbacks and manage their expectations during change.

"This is a key psychological struggle. Take, for example, someone who’s been in a certain career for years. If they want to pivot to something entirely different, it’s not just about learning new skills—it’s about reshaping their identity from 'the career person' to 'someone starting fresh.' Dr. Kelly explains that this emotional discomfort is a natural part of the process, but it doesn’t have to define us. The struggle is real, but so is the potential for reinvention."

 

Section 4: The Role of Resistance

"Okay, so we’ve covered some heavy stuff. Routine, fear, and identity all play a role in making change difficult. But here’s the wild part: resistance to change is completely normal. It's not a sign that you're failing or doing something wrong—it’s part of the process. Every time you hit that wall of resistance, you’re facing your brain's natural instincts to keep you in the known."

"Think about it like a muscle. If you’ve ever started working out, you know that the first few days or weeks can feel tough. But over time, that muscle gets stronger. And with change, that resistance can actually be a good thing—it’s a signal that you’re doing something that’s pushing you toward growth. The more you face that resistance, the easier it gets to push through it next time."

"So, now that we know why change is so hard, the real question is: how do we make it easier? The short answer is—start small, be kind to yourself, and remember that change is a process. It’s about progress, not perfection. The hardest part is usually just taking that first step. But once you start, you’ll find that each small change builds momentum for bigger ones."

"Remember, change is hard because it asks us to step outside of our comfort zones, face uncertainty, and reshape who we are. But it’s also the key to growth, to new opportunities, and to a deeper sense of self. So, even though it’s difficult, it’s worth it."

 

The Year of Profit podcast, hosted by Joe Shortridge, is your go-to resource for transforming every aspect of your life. As a seasoned life and financial coach, Joe brings a unique blend of personal development and financial wisdom to each episode. This podcast is designed for anyone looking to improve their mindset, boost productivity, manage stress, and achieve financial success. Whether you're striving to overcome personal challenges, build better habits, or enhance your financial literacy, The Year of Profit offers actionable strategies to help you reach your goals.

Joe’s expert advice covers a wide range of topics, from mental wellness and time management to wealth-building techniques and entrepreneurial mindset. Each episode provides listeners with practical steps they can immediately apply to their daily lives, leading to long-term growth and fulfillment. Through relatable stories and proven strategies, Joe empowers you to take control of your life, create positive change, and maximize your potential.

If you're ready to take your life to the next level and start living with purpose, The Year of Profit podcast is the perfect place to begin. Tune in each week for new insights, motivation, and inspiration to start your journey toward lasting success and well-being.