People don’t realize how much agency we have for change. We think we’re born into a specific mindset with certain predispositions where we fall accustomed to saying “that’s just the way I am,” not realizing that we are actually making choices at every moment. Unfortunately, too often we make choices that don’t serve us. 

For example, I’m sure you’ve heard a friend say something along the lines of “I really hate my job, but I can’t find something else because…” or “I am really tired of the way I look, but I can’t find the time to improve because…” or “I am not happy in this relationship, but I can’t change it because…” And then every time you offer a suggestion, it is met with a variety of excuses to keep them right where they are. They’ll say “I can’t do this because of this, that, or the other thing.” 

It’s important to understand that just like our friends, we find reasons to stay in situations that are no longer desirable. Change is hard, but to either stay where you are or to move forward is still a choice. Saying “I can’t do this because…” is the same as saying “I can do this because…” as both are reflective of a choice we make with ourselves to continue to either fit within the narrative we tell ourselves or break free to develop a new one. 

The idea that shines through the inability to act on what we want is that change is still desirable, but usually what we want is for someone or something else to change, not us. What most people miss is that it is you who is going to need to change — in mindset, outlook, actions, etc. — to actually discover what you’re after. 

You’re never going to get the new job if you find excuses as to why you can’t get out of the one you have. You’re never going to lose the weight if you continue to find excuses for not doing the things necessary for you to get the look, and acquire the confidence you desire. You’re never going to leave the relationship you’re in if you continue to turn off the feelings you’re after. 

If nothing else, we are the cumulative effect of the choices we make. It is time to recognize that if those choices aren’t pushing you in the direction you wish to go, then they are keeping you from getting there. Sometimes you have to break the mirror to see what is beyond yourself.