Do you find yourself dissatisfied with things around you? Do you wish your life was much different than it actually is? If you are wondering where the change you need, can come from, read below on what motivates people to change.

What Motivates People To Change?

When you look at how humans behaved only a century ago, you would not be able to believe your eyes. There were no refrigerators to store your leftover pizza, and no microwaves to heat it up in only a few seconds. 

You would not find a hairdryer in any bathroom to dry your hair after the shower. You would rarely find a bathroom inside a house to shower in the first place! In only a hundred years, we have come such a long way that our own past practices seem outrageous to us.

With these in mind, imagine how much we have changed since the first human saw the Earth! Amazing.

The Only Thing Constant About Life Is Change

Ever since the beginning of time, we are constantly evolving and changing ourselves. For better or for worse, a person never stays in one state for very long. Though much of this change comes from nature itself, a large part also originates from within us. And it is this constant change that has kept our race alive and well so far.

Change is not only inevitable, but it is also vital for our survival. Did you know that women – who make up half of the population – could not even vote in the elections until 1918?! Thankfully, due to the efforts of many, a change was brought about, and we were granted this fundamental right. There are always things in life, we wish would be different. But, are you willing to change to make it happen?

Where Does Change Come From?

To bring about change often requires considerable effort and sacrifice. People who are not ready to make these sacrifices, or are too lazy to pursue something, leave the situation as it is. Change only comes when you tell yourself, “I am aware of the consequences, and #IChoose to strive for this cause.”

So, where does this motivation for change comes from? How do we go from being lazy, to turning around the things that we don’t like or want? How can we make an effort to evolve? I think three basic things drive a revolution – no matter how big or small that change may be. Let’s talk about each of them in detail.

Positive Reinforcement Is Probably The Biggest Reason Why People May Change Themselves

The promise and hope of things becoming better than they are right now may be the driver for any change. In my opinion, this cause for change is also often the most successful one.

When we see something that attracts us, we are willing to do most anything to achieve it – even if it means changing ourselves and the world around us. Let’s say that you are failing in World History. You cannot complete your homework or submit your assignments because you have no interest in the subject. What is one of the most likely things that can get you to start working hard in class?

For the teenager in me, in high school, it was the promise of a new car on my 17th birthday. As soon as my parents made it known that the requirement of getting my own car was at least a B+ in World History, I changed my entire method of studying. From someone who could not bear the World History textbook for five minutes, I became someone who would wake up and sleep with it. 

And sure enough, at the end of the term, I had an A in World History and a brand new car of my own. It is when I see how change can affect my life in a positive way that #IChoose to put conscious effort into chasing that dream. It’s amazing what motivation can do!

This was a small example from my own life, but the same rings true for larger than life changes. Women’s suffrage happened in 1918 because women saw how they could have a say in their way of living if they were allowed to vote. People rebelled against arranged marriages in the ’20s when they realized how knowing a person before marrying them, could lead to happier relationships. The concept of gas stations came into being in 1905, with people became enthralled by the convenience it could offer them. Convenience can motivate change.

The Fear Of Failure Is Also A Great Driver For A Revolution

Just like the enticement of better things can push you to change, the fear of negative things happening also works the same way. When you truly believe that NOT changing yourself, could have some pretty ugly consequences; you are left with no option, but to make those changes.

This fear could either stem from things remaining just as bad or even from them getting a lot worse. It could also include other negative emotions than just fear, such as guilt, humiliation, or spite. In my opinion, this cause for change is often not as sufficient as positive motivation. However, in some instances, even these negative energies work great at bringing about a revolution – especially when channeled in the right way.

Again, let me give you an example from my own experiences, which you can probably relate to. A few years ago, I was terrible with finances. My credit card bills were not paid on time, and my roommate would constantly have to nag me about rent every month. Even though I had a job, I was always broke.

I knew that I was being a terrible roommate, and needed to reassess my priorities. But, for some reason, I could never resist a sale. It was not until my roommate refused to cover my half of the rent that I finally did something about my situation.

The fear of being evicted from my home is what motivated me to stop my useless, unnecessary spending. I refused to give in to temptation. I told myself that I do not need the things on display, and that #IChoose to change my behavior completely going forward. Though it was super challenging to resist the temptation at first, I knew how to save money by the end of that month. It was a feel-good change.

What’s more, I began to look for a higher paying job – something my past lazy self considered a nightmare. But, I was able to make rent that month, and every month after it, I also took my roommate out for a fancy dinner as an apology. Since then, I have become more and more responsible for my finances. This one event changed me for the rest of my life. What event has changed you?

The Third Instigator For Significant Change Is A Great Realization

Sometimes, people remain in a stagnant situation because they do not identify it as one in the first place. Sometimes, people never realize how bad things have gotten and how greatly they need a change until a sudden jolt wakes them up. this realization is our third instigator for significant change.

Many never turn things around until they are hit by a metaphorical bus. A lot of times, this sudden realization is not very pleasant. Therefore, realize you need to change, before things get to this point.

Let Me Tell You A Story

A friend of mine was a pretty heavy drinker. A day wouldn’t go by without him having several drinks. He knew this was not a healthy habit, but he was just not ready to quit. It required too much work.

One day, this person was coming back home after a long night of partying. As usual, he had consumed a lot of alcohol. Because this was nothing out of the ordinary, he thought he was okay to drive his car home, instead of calling an Uber. As you guessed, he had an unfortunate accident.

This person crashed their car into a tree and suffered several injuries. Luckily, these injuries were only minor, and he did not hurt anyone but himself. However, it was the last time he ever got drunk again.

Though distressing, this accident was his wakeup call from his unhealthy lifestyle. For some people, it takes a near-death experience to finally change.

Are You Ready To Change

What significant changes have you made in your life, and what were the instigators behind it? What do you think is the strongest motivator for change for most people? Or is there a need for change in your life?