How to Maintain Motivation Throughout Metamorphosis
Why transformation rarely happens in an instant
The concept of metamorphosis is fascinating. Whether it’s the biological process of transforming into who you are meant to be, or the inner metamorphic process that inexplicably transforms us, we emerge unlike how we started. And this rapid change can make it difficult to adjust to our new self, or even to adjust to the process of changing at all.
So, it's wise to have practices in place that are supportive of monumental change.
Truly, it would be difficult to sustain development without re-thinking and re-establishing habits, thoughts, and behaviors.
Most of us want to sustain positive change and experience fulfillment every day; I know I do. But some days it admittedly seems out of reach.
When this occurs, it’s helpful to be compassionate towards ourselves during times of complex change. This ultimately leads to greater motivation during times of transition and metamorphosis.
It’s also natural to assume that when faced with change, whether intentional or circumstantial, we feel uncomfortable with our new self. After all, transformation rarely happens in an instant because it only comes through a long process of creatively dealing with struggles, building resilience, and learning to embrace joy.
We want to live our best life, but oftentimes it’s through the cataclysmic process of setbacks and disappointments that lead us to a happy and content life.
Make no mistake, it takes time to shift behaviors, thoughts, and patterns into a sustainable practice that supports a great life. But by taking things as they come, one small step at a time, it’s easier and less challenging to get where you’re going.
Resistance leads to an increase in struggle and subsequently suffering. It sounds trite, but it's true. Transitions are inevitable. Change is constant.
Metamorphosis is a re-birth. It’s a chance to start fresh and design a life that supports our goals and dreams. Who doesn’t want that?
So, let’s give ourselves the right tools and support. This way it will be easier to maintain a steady foundation during times of uncertainty.
The five practices below can help us to embrace change, expand our perspective, and grow into a happier, more confident person.
1. Build resilience.
Being flexible and maintaining strength of character can help during the transitional time between who we were and who we will ultimately become.
It’s normal to have instances of uncertainty along the journey.
Everyone encounters obstacles, but it’s the getting-back-up, pushing-forward attitude that can and often will propel us to something even greater than imagined.
Steady resilence is created through authenticity and awareness. Remaining true to ourselves and remembering what we value, and where we want to go, will help us to maintain motivation on the quest to becoming our greatest self.
2. Cultivate acceptance.
Remember that you are in transition because you made a clear choice to experience personal growth.
Accept and acknowledge where you are in your personal transformation.
Be confident in this decision and know that you are not a victim of any circumstance. Do this and you’ll stand strong knowing that this is a conscious choice that leads to happiness and inner peace.
Despite any challenges, it’s important to remember that the outcome is worth the temporary unknowing.
It’s also helpful to remember that acceptance doesn’t equal allowance.
3. Increase support.
Each journey upon which we embark comprises a series of single actions along our unique path. It can be easy to get distracted and accidentally misstep, which is why it’s critical to continue in the right direction and accept help when needed.
Support is crucial during times of transition, and having the right support system can make all the difference.
This looks different for all of us, but a few helpful examples are: joining a club or support group. scheduling a session with a life coach. joining an exercise program. meeting with a supportive mentor. reaching out to trusted mentors and friends.
Lean on whatever works for your life and situation and it will be easier to remain empowered when faced with setbacks or difficulties.
4. Choose your words carefully.
What we say out loud and to ourselves has power, so embrace supportive and loving phrases. Tune into your internal dialogue and decide if your daily words and phrases are empowering or self-sabotaging.
We have a choice as to what words we speak internally and externally, and these words have a direct effect on how we perceive individual situations.
Do you feel empowered or powerless?
Choosing words that reflect a self-supporting strength will help us to discover more positive elements of language. This helps us to stay motivated.
Use compassionate, supportive language and watch your fear dissolve into motivation.
5. Symbolically release what no longer serves you.
Whether it’s through the relinquishment of old belief systems, letting go of a critical inner voice, or replacing anything else that is less than kind toward yourself, it’s critical that we release our old selves in order to transform.
The actual process that you choose can be anything that is symbolic of your journey. It may mean donating clothes that no longer fit, or giving diet/lifestyle books to the library, or writing a letter about what no longer serves you and disposing of it. Art or music therapy can also be beneficial.
It doesn’t matter which specific route we choose; what’s important is to create a physical action that acknowledges our unique journey.
When we celebrate our true path, it bestows a deep sense of meaning into our actions, which then raises our motivation level to continue onward.
Metamorphosis is a dramatic transformation that gives us the chance to remold, recreate, and reimagine our lives. Be willing to make changes and see what is possible.
With love and gratitude, Aurora
