The Power of Change

Family Power Blog/Column # 3
Dr. Ed Hollenberg
August 16-31, 2010

Embracing Change
As another school year begins, we recognize change is a fact of life, the one thing we can count on. Many changes we face are chaotic, disorderly and unplanned. But with the change of natural processes there is an order, a highly predictable plan.Think of the constant forces of change in our bodies as we grow from infancy to toddler, child to adolescent, adult to aged. Slow, continual change evolves in the world around us - population, consumption, marriage and divorce, birth and death, homelessness, crime and violence, wars and tribal conflicts, economic and political change... life goes on.

Change & Growth
During infancy and childhood, choices and change are almost the complete responsibility of parents. Curiosity must be encouraged but safe-guarded. As physical and emotional changes develop during adolesence, the body is growing, yet the brain does not reach adult maturity until age 22. This is a period of challenged response/ability. Guidance and stability from parents, teachers and adult mentors are vital. Every teenager needs a role model other than Mom & Dad. The adolescent brain needs good purposes, values and a sense of destiny.

Changing Habits
Perhaps we feel helpless because so much change is out of our control. Change is also a choice as it pertains to our attitudes and habits. William James wrote, "The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind. Ridding ourselves of faulty, negatives thoughts and actions by concentrating on positive desires and emotions. To choose and to act response/ably, one must visualize desires, clarify actions and reject enslavement to old, reactive patterns.

Change Your Future
Industry consultant Phil Crosby made a powerful statement on change in lives/homes, "The culture we now have...we don't need to condemn it...all we have to do is describe the future the way we would like to (see it) and then march down the yellow brick road." Like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, we parents can envision our children and families marching to our destiny as we see it. Imagine, daily, how you want to change and it will happen! Your life will change - it is inevitable. The only question is when, how and how much...positive or negative. It is your choice. Grow...transform...renew your life

Powerful Words for Family Power!
Dr. Ed

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