Scare Yourself

Eleanor Roosevelt said it is good to scare yourself, at least a little bit, every day.   I scared myself a whole lot at age 50 when I resigned from a great job and career and opened my shiatsu and nutrition practice.  It was scary because I didn’t know if I could succeed.  Before I left my old job I went out and bought clothes because I scared myself so much I didn’t know when I would ever afford to buy them again.  I only knew I felt called to the work and had to do it, despite my fears and the puzzled looks from people who thought I’d lost my mind. 

Well, I didn’t lose my mind; I found myself.  More than twenty years later and there is still not a day that I’ve said I don’t want to go to work.  It was one of the best things I’ve ever done. And I have been able to buy clothes since I left that old career.

Someone asked me recently what I think goes into making change.  Many of us had unexpected solitary time during the pandemic and it opened many discussions about happiness, life purpose, and what the future holds. Whether we are making huge changes or very simple ones, I think there are essential steps to take in the process. 

The first is recognizing that change is needed, for whatever reason. It may be dissatisfaction with the current status of your health, or your relationship, or your work, for instance.  Once the area needing change is identified, you formulate a plan for exactly how you would like to change the situation.  It may be a minor tweak that will shift the energy or something that requires a detailed plan and timeline to accomplish.  Whatever it is, to me the hardest parts are overcoming fear of change and getting change underway. After these monumental obstacles are tackled, you’ll be ready to dive right in. The water will be warm and you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

So take Eleanor’s advice and if you are looking for a change, scare yourself a little bit and go for what you truly need to fully express yourself.

Peg Doyle has been helping women over 50 change their eating for the better for nearly 21 years, She helps you identify your goals and supports you with accountability but no judgment.

Visit her website wellnessandyou.com for info on my post-covid weight loss program.