Part 3 of a 3 part series.
Change is exciting in theory. We set goals, make plans, and imagine a new and improved version of ourselves. Yet, despite our best intentions, lasting change often feels frustratingly out of reach. Why? Because our brains are wired to resist change and cling to the familiar, even when the familiar no longer serves us.
The Brain’s Resistance to Change
Our brains are designed for efficiency. They rely on neural pathways—well-worn roads built over years of repeated behaviors. These pathways make everyday tasks automatic, freeing up mental energy for more pressing decisions. However, when we attempt to change a habit, we’re essentially trying to carve out a new road where an old highway already exists. That’s hard work!
The brain views change as a potential threat. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for conscious decision-making, must work overtime when we introduce new behaviors. Meanwhile, the amygdala, which processes fear and emotions, often triggers a stress response, making us feel anxious or uncomfortable about change—even when it’s positive.
This is why change feels exhausting. It’s not just about willpower; it’s about rewiring deeply ingrained neurological patterns. The more we repeat a behavior, the stronger the new pathway becomes, but that takes time and consistency.
The Comfort of Familiar Patterns
Beyond brain resistance, another major obstacle to change is our emotional attachment to the familiar. Even if a habit is unhealthy or unhelpful, it often provides comfort simply because it’s known. Our minds would rather stay in a predictable, familiar situation than risk the unknown, even when the unknown has the potential to be better.
For example, if you’ve always identified as someone who “just isn’t good at exercising,” your brain and emotions reinforce that belief because it’s comfortable. Starting a new workout routine disrupts that identity, leading to discomfort—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
Changing Your Mindset, Changing Your Life
Understanding that resistance to change is natural—not a personal failure—can help shift your mindset. Instead of seeing discomfort as a sign that you’re not capable of change, recognize it as proof that your brain is adjusting to something new.
Here are a few strategies to work with your brain instead of against it:
Start Small – Your brain resists drastic change but adapts more easily to small shifts. Focus on one small habit at a time rather than overhauling everything at once.
Reframe Discomfort – Instead of fearing the discomfort of change, see it as evidence that growth is happening. Discomfort means you’re stepping out of autopilot and into transformation.
Use Identity-Based Change – Instead of just setting behavior goals, shift your identity. For example, instead of saying, “I’m trying to exercise more,” say, “I’m becoming someone who moves their body daily.” Your brain follows the identity you reinforce.
Repeat, Repeat, Repeat – Neural pathways strengthen with repetition. The more you practice a new habit, the more natural it will become.
Give Yourself Grace – Your brain may try to pull you back to old patterns, but that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. A setback is just a reminder that transformation takes time.
Final Thoughts
Change is hard, not because you lack discipline or motivation, but because your brain is designed to resist it. But when you work with your brain instead of against it, you can create sustainable change that leads to real transformation.
Suggestion for moving forward: Decide on a small, specific habit and commit to it daily. For example, instead of saying, "I want to be healthier," start with "I will drink one extra glass of water each day." Small, consistent actions help rewire the brain and make change feel more manageable.
Need help? Fill out the contact form on the website and I will be glad to help get you started on your journey.
Until next time, keep soaring..
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