Life Coaching Tip: Most transformations take place gradually. It always starts with a decision to begin, and then a daily commitment to continue moving forward, even when the results haven’t become apparent yet. Since that last part isn’t always easy, the key to staying motivated is to focus on your “whys” and the awesome feeling you’ll experience once your goals are accomplished!
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I’m going to start off here admitting that I was a little grouchy about it.
It began after an especially wet spring in 2019 which caused Lake Erie’s water levels to be at an all-time high. Then, over the course of the summer, the beach my husband and I enjoyed spending our weekend mornings strolling on had been erased as the shoreline eroded.
At first, we assumed this condition would correct itself soon enough, but over time we’ve realized this will not be the case. Today, our beloved beach is mostly still underwater, and the paths that led down to it have also disappeared.
The banks have also been affected by the erosion. Even my very favorite lookout spot at the top of the Lake Erie Bluffs. This place where I go to quiet my mind and reflect every morning is dwindling, as big chunks of land crumble and fall down the cliff.
Even though I understand this, I was still disheartened and a little salty when the park system closed off the area.
Those who know me are aware that my rebel personality does not allow me to respect a “closed” sign, especially when it is between me and the stunning view that I love so much! So, for the past year or so, I’ve been bypassing the warning sign and continuing to enjoy “my spot.”
However, the bank is disintegrating at warp speed now and it’s very evident that the park managers made a good decision to close the area. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to safely visit there much longer.
Yet, on the bright side . . .
Jerry and I have recently made a delightful new discovery!
We’re not sure if this has to do with the hundreds of swallow nests that were built into the side of the cliff, but the erosion of the bank by “my spot” does not appear to be as extreme a drop as in other areas of the park. Instead, it’s more of a gradual slope that stretches out the landscape. Clusters of trees have even fallen to the bottom upright, still with their root systems intact.
And the coolest part is that this gradual transformation of the shoreline has created a vast, beautiful, new beach!
My husband pointed this out to me, and I was amazed. I mean, I visit the area every single morning, yet I did not see this gradual transformation taking place right before my eyes!
I thought about this today and recognized that most transformations take place gradually. I thought about some of the transformations I’ve made in my lifetime and those my clients have made. From losing weight to improving relationships to building a business, it’s always a gradual process.
And it always starts with a decision to begin, and then a daily commitment to continue taking steps forward, even when the results haven’t become apparent yet.
Think about the dreams you have for your life. Imagine how far along you will be exactly one year from now if you begin acting on them today.
Not after things slow down and your schedule lightens up, or after (insert any circumstance or excuse). But now! Don’t let your brain trick you into thinking you need to wait another moment more to begin taking action towards manifesting your goals.
Remember, transformation is a gradual process, and it won’t begin until you finally commit to moving forward.
Do it, my friend. Get going. Start TODAY!
Happy Is Not a Place; It’s a Decision!