The idea that we eventually get fed up with our own bullshit and want to change and grow, because we know a better version of ourselves is within is something I’ve been experiencing lately.
I’ve grown tired and drained by certain tendencies that disrupt my mental peace and contentment.
This quote by Elizabeth Gilbert sums it up best:
“I’ve never seen any life transformation that didn’t begin with the person in question finally getting tired of their own bullshit.”
The challenge is that it’s not a linear or overnight process.
Change Starts With a Decision and Action
But it does start with a decision; a decision to commit to doing what it takes to overcome our own BS.
And as a reminder… how are all decisions made?
By taking action.
Remember what Tony Robbins says:
“A real decision is measured by the fact that you’ve taken a new action. If there’s no action, you haven’t truly decided.”
Take Action by Doing Something Different
Reflecting on this more, I believe the best action we can take is to do something different, something we wouldn’t normally do but that points us in the direction of who we want to become.
For example:
If you’re an anxious avoider (like me), someone who gets anxious easily and avoids things, it could mean choosing to face those anxieties and the things you’re avoiding.
Not all at once. That’s overwhelming. 😵
But one at a time.
By doing this, we start the process and prove to ourselves, not anyone else, that we’re serious about change and our actions back us up.
What Do You Want to Change?
So the question is…
What is that for you?
This isn’t to put pressure on you. Pressure doesn’t work for everyone; it can backfire.
But it is to encourage you and give you a gentle nudge towards identifying what it is you want to change about your own behaviour, how you want to grow and overcome your own bullshit.
Over the past two weeks, I’ve realised: we all need a bit of encouragement throughout our lives. And maybe this message is yours today.
Recognise It, Understand It, Take Action
At the end of the day, we all have our own version of BS.
To truly grow and evolve is to recognise it, understand it, and take action to overcome it, so we can step into the better version of ourselves that we know is within us.
This isn’t easy.
But it’s necessary for any real-life transformation and for living our best possible lives.
Key Takeaways on Breaking Your Negative Cycles
- Acknowledge Your Patterns: Real transformation begins the moment you get tired of your own self-sabotaging behaviours and decide you want something better for yourself.
- Action Defines Decision: A genuine decision to change is only proven when you take a new action. Without action, a decision is just a thought.
- Start Small and Be Different: You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Choose one small thing you can do differently that points you toward the person you want to become.
- Embrace Gradual Growth: Progress happens one uncomfortable step at a time. Focus on intention and consistent action, not overwhelming intensity, to create lasting change.
FAQs for Tired of Your Own BS?
What is the first step to making a real change in my life?
The first step is recognising and getting fed up with your own patterns or behaviours that hold you back. This self-awareness, as Elizabeth Gilbert suggests in the article, is the starting point for any significant life transformation.
How do I know if I’ve truly committed to changing?
You’ll know you’ve truly committed when you take a new action. A decision without a corresponding action is just an idea. Your new behaviour, no matter how small, is the evidence of your commitment to growth.
I feel overwhelmed by the thought of changing. What should I do?
Focus on taking just one small step. Instead of trying to fix everything at once, identify one thing you can do differently. If you tend to avoid difficult tasks, for example, choose to face one of them. Growth is a gradual process.
Why is doing something ‘different’ so important?
Doing something different breaks your old, unhelpful cycles. It proves to yourself that you are serious about change and builds momentum. This new action is a direct step the better version of yourself you envision.
Is it normal to need encouragement during this process?
Absolutely. Everyone needs encouragement and a gentle nudge now and then. Resources like the insights here can provide that support as you work on overcoming your personal challenges and growing.
