Once you have assessed yourself honestly and have accepted where you are in this moment, and once you have turned yourself toward a healthier path, you’re ready for step three in the process of change. Don’t be surprised if it seems there’s a chasm between where you want to be and where you are right now. It may feel as if you’re standing on one side of a river, looking at the place you want to be, which is far on the other side, but no bridge seems to be found. When the thought enters, “I don’t know how to build this bridge,” it can be easy for seeds of doubt to creep in. You may question your ability to reach your goal. If you feel this little speedbump on your journey, take courage! It’s all a normal part of the process, as you change; as you grow. It is precisely the search to find or build your bridge that leads to your search for the blueprints and the materials needed to get you where you want to go. Your gathering of information and materials (maybe some good shoes, a water bottle, finding out about using the track or joining with others who want to start walking with a group, etc.), is fueled by your desire to change. Remember, your desire to change comes from recognizing your weakness. All of these steps are necessary, so don’t try to skip over truly identifying your weakness and allowing yourself to feel a strong desire to change. The stronger the emotion, ie the desire to change, the more likely you are to start the change process (and keep starting, over and over, which becomes a pattern of perseverance, which is great!). Part of gaining knowledge might include finding a book, a therapist, a coach, a friend, or a support group. To do this, ask around and find someone who has accomplished what your goal is. Remember there are several paths you may take, and your individual journey is your own, however, taking a close look at how someone else got where you’re going can be very helpful and inspiring. Seeing that others have done it means it IS possible. You CAN do it, too! You might struggle to overcome false beliefs about your ability to change. If you believe the truth that you can do it, you can. If you have a hard time believing you can, then tell yourself daily “I can do this!” This will help you to correct your false belief and in time, will help you to see that following the path to success is, in many ways, success. Gain knowledge. Recognize the lies. Learn the truth. Be well.

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