Change is all around us each day in small and big ways. From the quiet things like a new bud opening on a stem to the less tangible things like realizing our babies have blossomed into young adults to nature’s changes like a clear sky one day and a blizzard the next. Some we take for granted, while others are hard to ignore.

Sometimes change just happens. Some we have no control over like the weather or other people. The only thing that is dependable about change is that we know it will occur. More importantly, some changes we can decide to make happen. That’s when life gets exciting.

Perhaps you’ve spent time thinking about some changes you’d like to make. Your thinking time is essential. It gives you a chance to ponder and define what is important to you. It lets you evaluate what is working well in your life and what is not. However, change will not occur by just thinking. Action has to accompany the changes you seek.

So, what am I really talking about? Let’s say that your clutter overwhelms you and you just don’t want to live with that level of stress anymore? You have reached a critical point because you’ve identified both what you do and don’t want. You don’t want clutter and stress. You do want more clarity and calm. It is important to have figured out this part. Now what?

For some, identifying the issue is enough to help put action into motion. For many others, the thoughts will never move to the action steps without assistance. So, if you are able to make the changes on your own, go to it with gusto! If however, you can’t figure out the next action step, there is no need to struggle on your own. Enlist help from a friend, family member or professional.

You can achieve the changes you desire either on your own or by asking for help. Change will happen. It’s up to you to decide which ones you want to play the leading role.