Where do Ideas of Change Come From?

Change /CHānj/. Defined by Oxford Languages as the act or instance of making or becoming different.

In a recent podcast, our co-founder and CEO, Sandra Scheinbaum, PhD, sat down with Ravi Komatireddy MD, MCTI, host of Idea Land podcast to talk about change, how it’s okay to be uncomfortable with change, and how a Functional Medicine Health Coach might be your answer to change.

 As humans, we go through many facets of change throughout our lives. However, how we go about making those changes can determine whether they are lasting lifestyle and behavioral changes or temporary ones. Change is hard, and it’s nearly impossible without accountability and support. As a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach, you will be able to understand and identify the various stages of change to better support you or your clients throughout their change journey, taught by our Director of Coaching Development, Monique Class MS, APRN, BC.

Here are some of the tips that Dr. Sandi shares:

1. Motivation

What is your purpose? It can help guide life decisions, influence behavior, shape goals, offer a sense of direction, and create meaning. For some people, their purpose is connected to vocation (meaningful, satisfying work). For others, their purpose lies in their responsibilities to their family or friends.

2. Ability to pivot

Life is not a one-size-fits-all, so why should your change be? Lasting change usually happens slowly over time. Trying to rush the process of change usually results in going to an extreme only to eventually burn out and have the pendulum swing back to the other extreme. Let change happen at a pace that feels right to you, and adjust and pivot if you feel that it’s not working for you. 

3. Celebrate the wins

Achievement is one of the pillars of well-being. When you celebrate the smallest wins, they can eventually lead to big results. If you are struggling with finding small wins, try breaking the behavior you’re trying to change into smaller, more attainable goals. Slow and gradual modification, rather than huge abrupt change, gives you the opportunity to take things one step at a time, which can be more productive and more likely to result in permanent change.

4. Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable

Change can be uncomfortable. When you’re feeling the discomfort of change, try not to run away from it so quickly. See if you can let yourself feel the discomfort and try to understand what it is that is so intolerable and allow space for learning and growth. 

Shifting our behaviors can take time, practice, and patience with ourselves. Remember, change doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be in process. 

Want to help others on their journeys to creating lasting change? Learn about becoming a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach! Download our free Info Packet.