Seek Positive Change
It is said that ‘Happiness’ and the pursuit of happiness is the main goal of life. However, the pursuit of perfection is the path that most of us are on. Everyone has an image or vision of what and where they wish to be in life: In other words, the image of their perfect self and life situation. The road to perfection is paved with disappointment which does not equate to a life of happiness and bliss. This realization is what we come to know as we age in life; for the pursuit of happiness is blurred as we seek to fulfill our dreams of the perfect existence.
What one is seeking is not always apparent. Needs and wants would seem to point us in the direction of happiness. Generally, a person wants what he/she thinks will improve their lot in life and happiness; and for sure, improvement is always the right and good thing. Seeking to improve one’s self or lot in life is a very good start. In fact, it is a never-ending process and life is a constant work in progress.
To be on the path of improvement means one is looking for a positive outcome (at least, one’s own understanding of improvement). Positive results help us to maintain our confidence. Unfortunately, some outcomes do not always prove to be as good as expected or planned. Life challenges us to become our best selves. Struggles, disappointments and even failure are part of the course of life and change. Failures should actually spur one on to greater improvement and change.
Disappointments usually condition an individual’s desires regarding what one deems to be positive. Some of the strongest of memories of disappointments are rooted in early childhood. For instance the experience of a lack or loss of anything in childhood can influence our deepest desires, whether that is the search for love, material success, acceptance, and the list goes on.
I don’t want to belabour the topic of early childhood psychology. Early childhood memories do have a huge effect - that may even extend well into adulthood. Adulthood too has its challenges; and, intensely difficult experiences which can alter one’s attitude including mental an emotional stresses.
Let’s look at how disappointment and even negative experiences can help one to become better and improved over time: Disappointment and delusion can create catalytic effects towards changes in life; and there are hidden lessons behind all disappointments. In the recesses of our psyche, hidden longings can move us toward a greater purpose and meaning in life; that is, if we follow our desires and dreams with a sense self- honesty and truth (or a higher faith). Lessons from the darkest of moments are important in life to one’s learning and growth.
Apart from disappointment, the hardest thing to overcome is fear as we move toward (positive) change. Whether we are in fear or not in fear, change itself can create apprehensive feelings. Fear blinds and blocks us from openly accepting the outcomes of positive change. One needs to see through disappointment and fear. Overcoming negative reactions and seeing opportunities in all circumstances and situations is half the work in seeking positive solutions and change, itself.
It is my observation, that those who have a level of religious and/or spiritual fortitude seem to handle their fears and change with an attitude of courage and personal sacrifice. Such individuals have a propensity to be more accepting of outcomes, and they never give up. I have also noticed that people who have faith in a higher guiding power also seem to possess great stamina to weather life’s storms, and nurture strength through patience and perseverance.
Those who approach their lives from a sense of self-reliance and responsibility, and who feel they are solely the maker of their destiny; and, who have great belief in their own power do not necessarily lace in faith, but tend to singularly rely will power and are no less successful. Taking responsibility in life is just as important as having faith in a higher guided power. I think, having both faith and a sense of responsibility is a healthy life balance.
Aspiring toward positive change is important even when things may be bleak. Visualizing one’s best self and best life; moving in positive directions to gain a happy life is better than envisioning negative scenarios or outcomes that may never really materialize. So make the effort to stay positive in all adversity and go the course and you will be surprised. Remember, be honest and truthful; thus. be realistic with yourself.
Realistic goals are good to have, however; the map of objectives is where one can really experience the obstacles in reaching their goals. The mind’s vision translated through goals and objectives into a physical reality is what is called manifestation: That is, when one is able to put their plans into action. The ability to manifest your dreams into reality is a blessing.
The pursuit of the ‘perfect’, or best self is creating yourself, and not just the act of searching for happiness. Empowering yourself to create the ‘best you’ and working towards positive transformation of your life is and of itself an act of becoming and embracing success.