Don’t Be A First Quarter Dropout
I've been trying to absorb as much as I can lately by reading, listening, and observing. But it's not enough to understand things, you know? I think it's important to really feel a connection to the information we're taking in. That's when it becomes truly valuable and worth sharing with others.
Lately, I've been thinking about neuroplasticity and how our brains work. Do you ever feel like your own mind is working against you? I know I do sometimes! It's like there are certain goals that we really want to achieve, but we can't seem to make them happen.
Perhaps you've had certain goals on your list that you wrote down in January, or it's been there for years, but you've never been able to achieve them. These desires are crucial to your happiness and fulfillment, yet they remain on your list year after year.
It turns out that our brains are actually wired to resist change. Our amygdala, which is the most primitive part of our brain, sees change as a threat and tries to protect us by resisting it. When you embark on any significant transformation, your amygdala will say, "Hold on! This is dangerous!" "Wait, don't do it; this is not familiar!" This can lead to self-sabotage and getting stuck in the same old patterns year after year.
But the good news is that we can override this resistance!
Step 1: Know that your brain might resist change and make it tough to stick to your goals. But that's just because it's trying to protect you from something new.
Step 2: Pay attention when you're feeling resistant to change and sabotaging your own progress. You can choose to give in or push through those feelings.
Step 3: Try new things and shake up your routine! Our brains love novelty, and getting a rush of dopamine from learning something new can help you stay motivated. Keep exploring until you find what works for you.
And remember, this approach can work for any goal you have in mind. So if you're feeling stuck, don't be afraid to mix things up and open yourself up to new experiences and people.
So, if you're feeling stuck in any area of your life, try something new! Your brain loves novelty, and learning something new triggers a dopamine rush. Maybe try a new workout routine, explore a new hobby, or meet some new people. Doing this can overcome self-sabotage and achieve your most desired goals. That way, you don't become a first-quarter dropout.
“You are not your brain. Just because you have a thought doesn’t make it true. You change the way you think, feel, and behave through conscious effort.”
Sign up for my free newsletter, usually sent once a month (and sometimes more often when inspiration strikes!). These are letters from my heart, filled with insights from my personal journey and client work, honest talk about life, and practical tools for managing self-doubt, tapping into inner wisdom, and embracing personal growth.
If you're seeking greater empowerment, satisfaction, and self-confidence, my newsletter will offer a steady source of inspiration, encouragement, and support
