Day Eleven: The Power of Small Change

As human beings, we are creatures of habit.  As much as we complain about routines, we crave familiarity.

Trying to break up familiar patterns can be difficult.  Often when we attempt changes, we habitually return to our old ways.

Day Ten's Tip was all about observing and noticing patterns, and using those observations as feedback for change.  Change is a powerful tool in disrupting patterns which lead to yelling, shouting, and hostile responses.

Huge changes can feel overwhelming.  Small changes can happen almost unexpectedly, and can be spontaneous, making them the perfect solution for trying to break up patterns which lead to angry responses.  If you can do something, anything, different, you can disrupt a pattern.  It's difficult to insert change in the heat of the moment, but if you've noticed patterns, make changes around those events.

• If you get dressed before you eat breakfast, try eating breakfast before getting dressed.  
• If you leave for work at 7:15, try leaving at 7:10.  
• If you eat tacos on Tuesdays, try something else instead.
• Wear something different.
• Sit in a different chair.
• Choose new favorite song.
• Move a few pieces of furniture.
• Drive a different route through the neighborhood.
• Take a vitamin.
• Go to bed 10 minutes earlier.
• So what small changes will you make today?  One small change might lead to a huge shift in patterns and perspective.

Find out more about the Valentine's Day Challenge.