2013: Finding Your 'Change Buddy'

January 03, 2013

As the new year begins many people find themselves revisiting their desire to change. Self assessments are now the norm as we watch the ball drop in Times Square. But, for many of us, the energy that prompts us to make declarations and resolutions often wains as the weeks pass. And while the hopes for change fade away, many unresolved feelings of disappointment remain.
As a professional coach and hypnotherapist it is my JOB to connect people to the power found in working alongside someone else to achieve change. Working closely with someone who is your constant cheerleader, guide and supporter can make all the difference between failure and disspointment and success and joy. If you haven't taken the time to explore how the coaching process works, I would strongly suggest you do yourself a favor and check it out. Nearly ALL professional coaches offer free first consultations, geared toward helping you understand how the process works and how powerful it can be for creating lasting change.
Other times, I have found that just finding a 'change buddy' can be an enormous positive in moving your toward any goal you may identify. This 'change buddy' can be a good friend, someone you work with, someone at your gym, someone from your child's school. I have discovered that creating a 'change buddy' relationship is something nearly ALL people are willing to participate in. Often, you can each be the 'change buddy' for one another. This exchange can motivate each of you to reach your goals and resolutions whereas working alone you might find yourself abandoning all hopes.
If you decide to work with a friend or acquaintance, some basic groundrules will help the process go smoothly.
Set up a schedule about how often to meet (by phone/Skype/in person) each week and stick to it. Each week declare your goal for that given week and your action steps you intend to follow that will help you achieve your goal. Don't be afraid to 'help' your 'change buddy' understand your triggers (i.e. "Don't call me out as being lazy if I fail one week!") Setting boudaries are healthy and necessary to keep the relationship clean and on task.
It is also possible to work as a team along with a professional coach (the cost for this is much less than the one on one process). Your coach will meet with you at the start of your process and then meet again for regular check in's (this can be established as all of you see fit....i.e. once a month, twice a month, etc.)
Understanding the power of having a human support system (other than a spouse, child or relative) can make all the difference in the world.
If you are interested in finding out more about change buddy's and how this may work for you, please feel free to contact me. As always, it is my goal, delight and purpose to help you make your life better!