Change: some love it, some hate it, and some put up with it.? Even people who resist change know that it’s an essential part of life, and necessary for growth and personal development. As the saying goes, “If all you ever do is all you’ve ever done, then all you’ll ever get is all you ever got.?

One morning last week, I realized that I was out of my favorite lipstick. I rushed to the store to find out that MY specific color, the color I’ve been using for years, was discontinued. Horrified, I asked the seller for an alternative, maybe the same color under another name. She said: ?Unfortunately no. I can see that you’re upset. I suggest you complain through our website.? I was indeed upset. I couldn’t find my color, only two similar shades: one lighter, one darker. Still upset, I bought both.

To my surprise, I actually ended up loving both of them, and getting lots of compliments!

It made me think about change. Why was I attached to one color for so many years? Why did I resist the change when it inevitably happened? What can I learn from my lipstick troubles?

I realized that minor changes, like finding out my lipstick was discontinued, are a great way to practice and develop the skill to deal with more significant changes without suffering so much. Why do we fear change so much? Because we are attached to the way things are. This is a known cognitive bias called the status quo bias. We will hold on to the status quo even if a change might improve our situation. By exposing small, relatively painless attachments like my attachment to my lipstick, we can undo our irrational tendencies and be more prepared to deal with change.

Start with small changes and have fun with them:

• Change the color of your lipstick/aftershave
• Change? the soap you’re using
• Take a new route to work ? and actually pay attention while you’re driving for once!
• Sleep on the other side of the bed
• Sit on the other side of the dining table
• Wear a new color

Making those changes will add a glow, a fresh feeling to your life. It might even create a sense of adventure and excitement. Break the routine.

What are 3 things that you are curious to change?

Let me know. Would love to hear from you!