Why transformation is hard, and persistence is key?

You are what you believe!

Personal, cultural, or organizational transformation is never easy.

It is a long and relentless journey.

Deep down, we human beings want to leave a mark. However, few have the focus and discipline.

You are motivated to get up early and step out for exercise. You can follow a routine for a week. However, a week later, you cannot force yourself out of bed. You have the motivation but lack the discipline to make it a habit.

You decide not to react every time someone hurts you. You remind yourself to control yourself. It works for a few months, and then you snap again. You kick yourself and feel guilty. This means that you desire to change but lack discipline.

A CEO knows the organization's practices and processes must change to achieve the next growth phase. A change program starts with much fanfare and achieves the desired result for some time. Half a year later, it falters and comes to a standstill.

So, how can one change?

Run as life depends on it!

Changes happen only when you have a sense of urgency.

We believe we can live forever. There is always tomorrow.

Whether you desire to improve physical health or relationships or transform your business, you must assume that now is the only chance.

Tomorrow never comes.

Now is the time. The only time.

Change happens when you are future-focused

Treat the rearview mirror as a guide, but focus on what is in your front.

All creatures on this planet resist change. Imagine a mighty elephant that stops resisting change once humans domesticate it. Innumerable studies have been done on mice and how they easily become conditioned.

Humans are no different. We are pre-disposed to fight against change. Once a habit gets formed, it comes in the way to change: the great human comfort zone.

Change starts when you make an effort to ignore the past. Please do not dismiss the past; learn, but don't let it come in the way of the future.

Does it ever get better?

Stories and imageries have conditioned us to believe you can enjoy a great future if you work hard enough. Study hard and get a good job. You are sorted for life.

Does it ever get better, though?

The answer is - "depends".

Doing well in school or working hard in your career or business early on builds a good foundation. However, we know change is the only constant. What looks great today may be just average tomorrow.

One can not rely on past glory forever. Technological development, regulation changes, disruptive ideas, and one error in judgment—anything can cost one the game.

The downfall begins once you fall into the trap of believing you have the right to enjoy forever. External forces are ruthless and devoid of emotions. Maintain the muscle to stay ahead until your last breath.