Don't be frightened - change is part of all our lives. It isn't unusual or worrying in itself but there's no doubt that major change in our personal lives is a challenge for all of us.
If we're clear about what we believe in and set ourselves realistic goals then change can have meaning and purpose, a way of achieving what we really want. It's up to you to act and determine your own future. Wait ... and someone will make
the decision for you.
Of course your life will change. Some of the things you've come to depend on will disappear - your 9-to-5 job, the weekly pay cheque, somebody always telling you what to do and when to do it. But don't be put off - you wouldn't have read this far
if you weren't looking for something extra in your life. We can all make ourselves more effective and satisfied with our lives, provided we choose the right things to work on and set about them realistically.
Realise your future potential - don't be limited by your past.
- Ask yourself how well you know yourself and understand your true motives. Explore your reasons for wanting to change.
- Don't be your own worst enemy! Partners, colleagues and friends will feel threatened by your decision to set up a business, but the biggest barrier to change is your attitude - not theirs.
- Don't underestimate yourself or your capacity to change - and don't just accept what others think of you.
- Don't make unrealistic demands on yourself.
- Be committed to action. Take the first step right now - putting things off can be fatal to successful change.
- Make sure you understand and are prepared for the changes you're likely to experience.
- Set yourself a series of modest, short-term goals rather than going for the jackpot right from the start.
- Think positively. Don't talk yourself into failure, and don't be discouraged by other people's responses. Don't make too much of temporary setbacks.
- Keep a constant check on how well you're doing. Reward yourself for successes, either by allowing yourself a treat or by congratulating yourself.
