In life, there are times when you may feel trapped and unable to make the change that you so desperately want and need to live a better life. Some people call this being ‘caged’, because at times it can feel as if you are living inside the confines of a caged existence. How do we break free from this and how can we bring about the changes in our lives that our soul is yearning for?
For a long time, I was in a situation where I wanted things to change but I was too paralysed with fear to take any steps in that direction. It came to a point where I was hoping and wishing for something external to happen because I was so afraid. I wanted someone else’s actions to bring on the change that I desired, mainly because I really didn’t know where to start and the idea of taking that first step towards change seemed impossible.
So I waited. I didn’t do anything. I just kept hoping that things would change. I didn’t talk about how I felt or try to make much of an effort to change the situation. I gradually just became more frustrated and unhappier, wishing for things that weren’t going to happen.
Then, one day, an opportunity came my way. It was a simple idea but also a clear step towards doing something for myself. Not the answer to my problems but a way to help me better manage the situation I was in with the possibility of a new approach. So, I stepped into it, and like a rock slowly gathering momentum down a hill, it turned out this small step was the kick start that I had wanted for so long, and the beautiful thing was that it happened because I made the first step.
\I’ll admit it wasn’t easy. There was challenge in the process and some rough patches along the way. There were high points and low points, but eventually it all worked out and when I look back, I’m grateful for the experience because the change that took place has resulted in improvements in how I live and show up on a daily basis.
So what did I learn from this experience?
My lesson from this, and what I want to share with you, is that if you really, really want something to change in your life, you can’t leave it up to fate or put it in someone else’s hands.
It requires you to start with one change that you can make yourself from the inside out – whatever that might be. I don’t know what your situation is, but if you are in a state where you are unhappy, where you want change, especially where you want others to change around you, then you need to do the work inside yourself first. Doing that will begin the process and cause ripples to flow out into your relationships, your work, your finances… everywhere!
Inside of you is the ability to make the change you so desperately desire. You have the power to take that step and start walking toward it. And I say walk because it is not something that is necessarily going to happen instantly.
So, if you have the seed of an idea, an opportunity to bring about change in yourself, know that a small change could be the catalyst for a bigger change. Don’t be afraid. Take that step forward with a heart full of courage. Do the work and see what’s waiting for you on the other side. It may not be an easy step, but it will be worth it in the long run. Your future self will be waiting there for you to thank you for your efforts.
