I Want To Know Your Pain Points
Some questions for you before we dive in: do you have an upcoming change in your life? Will it be personal or professional? Perhaps both? How do you expect this change to manifest in your life? Of course, you’re welcome to share in the comments about what this change might be but for now, I invite you to use that prompt as an opportunity for reflection.
As we see change on the horizon—perhaps welcoming it, fearing it, or somewhere in between, there are many “pain points” that make us doubt our ability to resiliently navigate through new seasons. I’m going to break some of those down in a moment, but before I do, I’d love for you to take this survey to let me know what your pain points are (don’t worry—it’s anonymous!)
It only takes two minutes and it will help you identify what your roadblocks are so it’s worth your time—promise!
Now that you’ve taken time to reflect on what roadblocks may be getting in your way, let’s break down the three biggest ones that I tend to see in my practice.
Pain Point #1: Not Having Enough Resources
This is a very real concern that you can’t deny. When we have a big life transition coming up, we can’t go into it blindly. We have to be mindful of whether we have the financial means and tools in place to successfully shift into a new season. Whether it’s looking for a new job or thinking about starting a family, it’s helpful to carve out the time and really map out what the financial gameplan will be. You can have all the desire to create change, but if you’re not able to back it up economically, it’s likely not going to help move the needle forward.
The Remedy
Let me share with you a tool that I found tremendously helpful for getting finances in order. It’s called You Need a Budget (YNAB) and it’s the perfect program that helps you budget, work on financial goals, and map out payment plans for loans and debt. I’ve recommended it to many clients who have been stressed financially and they’ve said that it’s been a game changer.
Pain Point #2: Not Having Enough Emotional Support
Let’s be real. Making any kind of change in your life, even if it’s a good thing, is incredibly scary. That’s why it’s crucial that you have a team of people cheering you on. Whether it’s family, friends, or coworkers, you need people that you can turn to for support. Going through a new season can bring all kinds of doubt and when we can have that person that we can call for a check-in, it can make all the difference when we’re wanting to turn back.
The Remedy
If you already have people that you can turn to, take a moment to appreciate this. Not everyone does. Create a log in your notes and jot down all the names of the people that you can reach out to in a pinch. And even if you do have a community already, I can’t recommend this enough—and prepare yourself—because many shun the idea before even considering it. Join a support group. Yes, I said it. Talking with other people going through similar experiences can be incredibly validating and it’s worth looking into. Mental Health America offers a group search engine to find a support group in your area. Give it a try.
Pain Point #3: Not Believing You’re Capable of Navigating the Change
This is probably the biggest barrier that I see with my clients. We get in our own way. We think we’re not ready, we’re not smart enough, or we’re not equipped. But I guarantee you this: you will figure it out. As you begin to ask questions, you’ll figure out what to ask next and where your next step will be. Rather than look 10 miles ahead, start with the first step and be compassionate with yourself for even considering a needed change. It’s a slow roll, not something that needs to happen overnight.
The Remedy
Get to know yourself better and understand what’s blocking you. I’m a big fan of the Silk + Sonder self-care journals as they offer an opportunity to deeply reflect and reconnect. Even if it’s five minutes a day, just setting the clock and slowing down with your thoughts can really help you identify what’s interfering with your forward progress. You can also use this article as a launching point to learn how to integrate your strengths as you enter into a new chapter.
Tell me what other pain points you’re noticing. The sooner we can build awareness of them, the faster we can find the remedies. I’m here for you and with you.