You Won't Change Without This
Why Passion Isn't Enough
Passion without preparation is a good intention designed to fail.
This is something I’ve learned the hard way.
I’m naturally passionate. I’ve often had in my sights something I’ve wanted to change. Put those together and it often feels like, in the moment, it is enough.
But in nearly every situation I’ve learned (and re-relearned)…it’s not.
The importance of setting my life up to support that lifestyle change I want to make is as crucial as the passion I feel that drives the whole operation.
I came across this meme the other day that gives a visual to what I’m saying…
For example, years ago, I knew I had a problem with shopping. I deeply wanted to change. There were moments I felt passionate enough to make that change (especially when I got frustrated about it by the mess of my overflowing closet or conviction by the Lord about it). But inevitably, something would always have me reverting to my shopping behaviors.
It wasn’t until I moved to action — prepared my life for a major shift in this area of my life — that I was successful to change. I committed to a one-year shopping fast, and set up my life to support that decision so I couldn’t go back on it. (You can read about it HERE)
Even now, I’m preparing things in other areas of my life to make real change.
Because of how the Lord has changed my heart and mind about my body, I’m making physical room for some new passions. I had to physically make changes to my office space to make room for some equipment and create more floor space for my body activities— I couldn’t just think about it or want to do it — I had to take action.
My office isn’t as put-together or cute anymore, but every time I come in here, I know I mean business about how I want to change.
Sometimes our passion is a great first step kick-starter to transformation, and sometimes we need a little help. If you find yourself in the latter category, here are some questions to ask yourself:
What has my current lifestyle (emotionally, spiritually, relationally, physically) cost me? (Write it down. Often when we see what a behavior has taken from us we will hate it enough to let it go.)
What kind of life do I want for my future? (Be specific!)
What are the changes that are necessary to bridge the gap between where I am and what that future looks like? (Be honest with yourself — make a list!)
Your passion is a great start. But it’s your preparation that will help you go where you need to go to carry you into tangible change.
PS: Speaking of shopping/closets, I have a GREAT tip for you if you are facing overwhelm with your clothes, plus my favorite go-to expert for getting your colors done if you love that sort of thing OR streamlining your closet! — I got my colors done, and I’ll share that with you if you’re in my Close Circle group now! Keep reading!