Culture Shock & Resistance to Change

Ever wonder why people (including yourself) find it difficult to change? Whether it’s losing weight, leaving toxic relationships, or starting a new business, change comes with challenges. And when you understand the nature of those challenges, the process of cultivating a new way of being and living is less daunting, even exciting.

Culture shock is the discomfort or disorientation associated with being subjected to an unfamiliar mindset or way of life. When you are pursuing a new way of thinking, a new goal, or new behavior, a major challenge is the mental stress associated with learning, relearning, and unlearning the information stored within your mind. This term, normally associated with living in a physically new place, can also be applied to living in a mentally new state.

Establishing healthier thought patterns and practices can literally feel like a shock to one’s mind, emotions, and body. Let’s be honest, change can hurt. It can be painful to let go of old things; even those things that no longer serve you (and those that never did). The following includes a few tips and truths on navigating newness.

Courage and commitment. Personal development on any level is exactly that: development. No matter the area of your life, building takes time, commitment, and courage. Remember the value of what you're building and why you desire or need to build.

Attitude adjustment. Often times, people desire change but don't expect to change themselves. Accepting an attitude adjustment takes a load off. Reminding yourself of the process and the necessity to adjust, eases the tension experienced.

Difficulty doesn't mean defeat. Challenges don't equate failure. People misconstrue difficulty for impossibility. That's far from the truth. Like strengthening any muscle, renewing your mind in order to enhance your behavior, decision making, and overall life takes lifting (and unloading) mental, emotional, and even spiritual weight. The more you exercise healthy practices the stronger you become.

When embarking on the journey of self-discovery and growth, remember resistance comes with the territory. Obstacles look like procrastination, doubt, and impatience. You may feel awkward and those who knew you may not accept the new you. Remaining open to the process and accepting all that comes with it is sure to get you to the other side.

LifeWork

Consider a goal you’ve sought to reach on more than one occasion, then write it in your journal.

Now, list some potential or known resistors to you reaching that goal (what created a sense of struggle or discouragement?).

Being able to identify the resistance helps you press through it. Acknowledge the challenge, then write the following question:

How do I go beyond this obstacle?

Note: the answers may take time but when they reveal themselves be sure to write them.

Be sure to journal your experience and be open to new answers. Get your soft cover LifeClub (Greatness is Intentional) Journal here. -- Tashima Jones is an author and life coach who focuses on personal development and building inner-wealth. Tap here for more on her coaching sessions. Not a Member? Join the Club here.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.