Many of us have reached a point where we question if this is really what life is all about. We may have a comfortable life and nothing much to complain about, yet we feel unfulfilled. We know that we aren’t spending time on the things that motivate us and we’re not being challenged in ways which push us to utilise our strengths and skills. We simply aren’t realising our potential.
It can seem like it is too late to change and we are stuck with our lot. We typically avoid focusing too much attention on what we really want, because to start pinpointing the person we would like to become means that we have to take action. Much as we might want to change, there is often a narrative in our heads that is quick to present obstacles and we are easily persuaded to stick with what we’ve got – it’s not too bad really.
Self Limiting Thoughts
Our inner narrative can convince us that it would be too disruptive, that we’d have to sacrifice too many other things, that we’re not good enough or we haven’t the time to follow our dreams. We get stuck in these unhelpful thoughts and that is before we’ve opened ourselves up to the scrutiny of others. The fear of what other people might say or think is just another layer which can stifle our ability to become the person we want to be.
Ultimately, we’re wired to opt for safety and security, so the familiar will always be the easier option, even if it isn’t right for us. We can see others who are following paths that we would like to be on, yet taking the first few steps on our own journey of change can be incredibly daunting. As a result it is easy to stick with what we know.
Even when we are unhappy with our lives, we are more likely to avoid taking action and try to cover the whole thing in a blanket of comfort eating, retail therapy, excessive drinking, gambling or obsessive social media activity. Rather than solving the problem, these distractions can simply add to the issue.
Realise your Potential
If you have an inner desire to follow your heart, achieve new goals, embark on a fresh journey and realise your potential, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can be a valuable tool. This counselling technique has helped many people to engage with their inner voice, understand what factors have led to this narrative and then challenge it.
You could have followed a career path which no longer excites or interests you, but pays a good wage and with other family members’ dependant on your financial support, change seems impossible. You may dream of travelling the world, living or working abroad, but fears about going it alone are stopping you from booking the flight. You may have phobias which are holding you back or you may want the strength to break free from unsupportive relationships.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy isn’t a quick fix, it requires you to focus on your priorities and address the barriers that you are putting up. However, with the conviction to embrace change over a series of sessions, you gain the strength and confidence to take the steps towards reinventing your life. If you would like to find out more about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Amersham based Cognisant PDC encourages you to get in touch.