[gayleggg]

I found this on the internet today and with the new year upon us, I thought it might be helpful. I know I hate change. It disrupts my sense of being, even if the change is for the good.

The Pace of Change

“A lot of people get impatient with the pace of change.”

James Levine

In life, change is inevitable. But for those of us living with Bipolar Disorder, undergoing change can be more of a challenge. This is particularly true during periods of depression. It is at these times that even the most simple of tasks like taking a shower or brushing one’s teeth can be exceedingly difficult.

So how can we get motivated to change?

• Small steps. Don’t try to do everything at once. Focus on one particular realistic goal. Once you have completed it then establish a new one. Even something as simple as making a commitment to get outside and breathe some fresh air can be energizing.
• Buddy up. Get together with a friend. Go for coffee. Go for a walk. Go to a movie. The operative word is GO!
• Pray. If you have some kind of concept of a Higher Power, prayer can be a particularly tool to find hope. But with prayer must come action. In my experience in 12-Step recovery I have seen many individuals develop a belief in a Higher Power which has helped them overcome tremendous obstacles.
• Believe. It is so important to believe that things can get better. This is where patience comes in. It all boils down to perspective. Our lives are so much directed by how we see things.

Change does not happen overnight. It takes time. Whether it be the right combination of meds or a holistic approach to depression, recovery requires a lot of work. But despite the feeling that things can never get better, they can. You just must never give up.

[ozzy1313]

thanks for posting this

[Mountainbard]

Thanks for sharing this, Gayle. I think sometimes "never give up" are the most important words for those of us who suffer from bipolar to remember-- and sometimes we need a little reminding.

[Fuzzybear]

[gayleggg]

Here's another article I found on change. How to Change Your Life: A User?s Guide : zen habits
It has some pretty good suggestions.

[vjdragonfly]

thank you, had to share this with my daughter

[Turtlesoup]

Thanks so much for this