The Only Real Change Comes From Inside - J. Cole

As the spring season rolls in we begin to notice how things change and transform.

Note: If you don't like something, change it.

There are tons of ways to make your campus and community better. There is always something that can be improved. These improvements can be tedious and will take time. Here are some things to think about to help you along the journey of changing your community and the world. We all know stepping out of our comfort zone can be challenging. Below are a few suggestions on how to stay motivated when things get tough and ways to make your transition to a change-maker smoother.

Start with YOU

“As human beings, our greatness lies not so much in being able to remake the world – that is the myth of the atomic age – as in being able to remake ourselves.” - M. Gandhi

If you're looking for a change, start with you. Changing the way you think will change the way you feel and the actions you choose to take. Time for self-reflection will be beneficial as you began thinking about changing your community and the world. Dig deeper to uncover where you would like to see a difference and why. When you have a few answers, also reflect on how you can best communicate these things to yourself and others.

You Are in Control

This is your life and these are your goals. Nobody can delay or destroy them without your permission. The way you feel, your course of action, and your responses are always up to you! Knowing and incorporating this thinking into your daily life will allow things to be a lot easier and more pleasurable.

Forgive & Let Go

“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” - M. Gandhi

Knowing that you choose your reactions and incorporating the thought regularly, gives power to your reactions to be more positive and useful for you and those around you. Delaying forgiveness allows another person and the past to control you. Going back to those negative emotions and thoughts will only keep you in that experience. This can cause prolonged suffering and inhibit you from taking action in the present moment. Forgiveness not only does the world justice but it gives you freedom as well.

Without action you aren't going anywhere

“An ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching.” - M. Gandhi

Don't let the difficulty of action stop you from taking initiative. Execution of your plans leads to understanding and brings actual results. It's one thing to say and another thing to do. Take action and celebrate your progress along the way, no matter if it's small or large.

Take care of this moment

Being in the present moment is the most important thing you can do daily. This will help you overcome inner resistance and overthinking. When you're in the present moment there is no room to worry about what is to come next. Being present also eliminates the illumination of past failures and experiences.

Ways to be Present (mindful)

-Take a few deep breaths.

-Focus on the energy inside your body.

-Move one body part at a time.

-Stretch.

-Take a break from technology.

-Clean the space around you.

The more you practice, being present becomes easier and more natural.

Everyone is Human

Hold yourself and others to a reasonable standard. As humans, we will all make mistakes. Having unreasonable standards will disconnect you from others and cause you internal conflict. It's not good to beat yourself up about your mistakes or others for theirs. Know where things went wrong and learn from your mistakes. This allows you to be compassionate and willing to learn.

Persist

“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.” - M. Gandhi

When there is opposition, remain persistent even if that is opposition is from you. Find ways to integrate the things you enjoy and love to make it easier to push forward and remain

positive. Your persistence will bring progress and results. Success seldom comes quickly which is why people begin to give up or question the process. It is important that you trust the process and enjoy the journey.

See the good in people and help them

“Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellow-men.” - M. Gandhi

Whether you know someone well or not, there is always something great about them. Find what's great in every person you come in contact with, because there is always something you can value and embrace. When you're able to find the good in others, it makes it easier to work with them and be of service. Valuing others not only benefits your relationship, but it allows that person to feel appreciated.

Be congruent, be authentic, be your true self

Being congruent and authentic will improve your social skills. When your thoughts, words, and actions are aligned you will have a better sense of inner being. Others will

see and appreciate this too. People enjoy others who can communicate authentically, it makes them want to really listen to what you're saying. Being in alignment with yourself allows you and others to truly believe in you.

Continue to grow and evolve

“Constant development is the law of life, and a man who always tries to maintain his dogmas in order to appear consistent drives himself into a false position.” - M. Gandhi

Everyone has a skill that can be improved. Going deeper into your understanding of yourself and your knowledge of the world can be your first step. If you don't feel like there is something that can be improved, you will. Choosing the path to grow and evolve is always the most beneficial path to take on any journey of success.

On any journey you choose to embark on, it will always entail a new experience. Be sure that there is alignment within yourself and your goals, and allow your journey to be one of enjoyment and growth. During those times, be sure to return to these suggestions and remember to be the change you wish to see.