Not Happy with Your Life? Here’s How You Can Change It!
Isn’t it amazing how life can take a 180-degree turn in just a year? This time last August, I was making some big, bold moves—moving to Portugal, launching my web design business, and perhaps most importantly, deciding to stop drinking alcohol. Each step was a leap into the unknown, where I felt like a complete beginner all over again. But here’s the thing: that’s exactly where the magic happens.
If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsatisfied with your life, it’s never too late to start fresh and make a change. Today, I want to share the lessons I’ve learned while reinventing myself over the last year and how you can invite more joy, curiosity, and transformation into your life, too.
Cheers to never being too old to start something new! Let’s dive into how you can take charge of your life and make real, meaningful changes.
Table of Contents:
1. Find a Guide, Don’t Go Solo
When embarking on a big life change, one of the smartest things you can do is lean on someone who’s already been there. Whether it’s moving countries, starting a business, or giving up alcohol, having a mentor or guide makes the process so much more manageable.
When I quit drinking a year ago, I reached out to people who had been through it before. Their guidance was invaluable in those early days. And moving to Portugal also became smoother thanks to connecting with people who had already navigated the transition. I could ask all the questions I had over and over again, which I’m super grateful for.
If you’re thinking of making a change in your life, remember—you don’t have to do it alone. European studies from the University of Cambridge have shown that people who seek mentorship and accountability are 60% more likely to achieve their goals than those who don’t. Find someone who’s done what you’re aiming for and let their experience guide your path.
2. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People
Stepping into something new can feel daunting, but doing it within a community makes it easier, more enjoyable, and more likely to succeed. Community provides the support, motivation, and shared experiences that keep you moving forward.
Moving to Portugal was not just about finding a house; it was about finding a community of like-minded people who helped me feel at home in a new country. They became a lifeline—people to share tips with, exchange experiences, and simply make the whole experience feel more manageable.
According to research from the University of Copenhagen, individuals pursuing goals within a community are 20% more likely to succeed compared to those who go it alone. Whether it’s online or in person, finding a group of people on the same journey as you is one of the best things you can do to stay committed and motivated.
3. Commit to Your Change
If you want to make real changes in your life, it’s not enough to dream about it—you have to show up, day in and day out, even when it’s hard. Commitment is key.
Starting my web design business wasn’t always easy. There were plenty of days when I doubted myself, feeling overwhelmed by the learning curve and questioning whether I could stand out in a competitive field. But instead of letting fear take over, I stayed committed. I focused on improving my skills, embracing challenges, and learning from each experience, even when things didn’t go as planned.
Now, I’m seeing the rewards of that dedication. What began as a daunting venture has become a thriving business, allowing me to do work I’m passionate about. It wasn’t about having everything figured out from the start—it was about sticking with it and trusting the process.
Studies from the University of Basel have shown that people who set specific, actionable goals and commit to showing up regularly are 2-3 times more likely to succeed. Commitment builds consistency, which builds confidence. And before you know it, what once felt impossible becomes second nature.
4. Practice Makes Progress
Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process that requires practice, patience, and consistency. Whether you’re building a new habit or pursuing a significant life change, the key is to make steady progress, day by day.
When I decided to stop drinking, it wasn’t the act of quitting that was the hardest part—it was dealing with the pressure from those around me. Many people didn’t understand my choice and would often suggest that “one drink couldn’t hurt” or even try to swap my non-alcoholic drink for something with alcohol in it. This kind of pressure highlighted just how uncomfortable it can make others feel when you choose a different path.
Despite these challenges, each month felt like a small milestone, reminding me that progress is gradual but steady. Now, one year later, I’m in a completely different place—mentally, emotionally, and physically. This experience has taught me that while the journey can be difficult, standing firm in your choices and making steady progress can lead to profound transformation.
Remember, practice makes progress, and progress is the goal.
5. Share Your Journey, Inspire Others
So often, we wait until we’ve “figured it all out” before we let others in. But there’s something incredibly powerful about sharing your journey as it happens.
When I moved to Portugal, I decided to document and share my experience on Instagram. It wasn’t about presenting a polished, perfect picture of my new life; it was about being authentic and transparent through the ups and downs of the process. From the excitement of exploring a new country to the challenges of adjusting to a new culture, I shared it all.
Sharing my journey in real-time created a sense of camaraderie and understanding. It turned the experience into a collaborative and enriching adventure rather than a solitary challenge. By letting others in, I found that I wasn’t just documenting my change; I was also inspiring and connecting with others who were navigating their own paths.
In the end, sharing the journey as it unfolds can be a powerful way to build connections, gain support, and find inspiration—not just for yourself but for others as well.
A European study from the University of Oxford revealed that individuals who share their progress with others are 70% more likely to achieve their goals than those who keep their goals to themselves. Sharing your journey doesn’t just keep you accountable—it also creates a ripple effect that inspires those around you.
Being a Beginner is a Gift
At the end of the day, being a beginner is a gift. Whether you’re quitting alcohol, moving to a new country, or starting a business, the act of stepping into the unknown is where true growth happens.
If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsatisfied with where you are, remember: it’s never too late to make a change. Embrace the new, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The fulfillment and joy you’ll find along the way are worth every challenge.
FREE 50 Growth and Success Hacks Guide
Ready to supercharge your journey? Download my FREE 50 Growth and Success Hacks Guide to get practical tips and insights that can help you on your path to transformation. Download the Guide Here!
Here’s to being brave enough to make a change and keep growing—one step, one day, one year at a time.
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