Embrace Change: You Can’t Change Others

Good morning, lovely people! I’m thrilled to welcome you back to another exciting conversation with me, Kenya. I genuinely hope everyone is doing wonderful! Although it’s been a while since my last post, I’ve been busy making positive changes, learning new things, and conquering the challenges that have come my way. Overall, I’m eager to dive back into blogging because this is something I truly want to embrace in my life. So, with that said, let’s get started! Grab your favorite drink, and let’s begin this journey together!

So, as you have already noticed, today’s topic is on “You can’t change people.” So on Saturday, while driving, a thought came into my head. The thought was, you guessed it, “you can’t change people.” And as I thought about it, I felt a sense of relief from this thought, and I started to gain a little understanding of why this thought was actually freeing. Then on Monday, while sitting with the Lord, the same thought popped back into my head again. As I started to meditate on this thought, I felt like it was a means of clarification on why embracing this fact was in our best interest. And it’s because it will release us from taking on a burden that we weren’t meant to take on in the first place.

For example, I’m a person who loves to cheer people on like a hyperactive cheerleader, desperately trying to help them see their hidden potential and act on it—cue the confetti! I’ve had more conversations about how amazing people are than I can count, and tossed out unsolicited advice like it’s candy on Halloween—”Trick or treat, here’s how to unleash your gifts!” Sometimes, I feel like they “listen,” or at least pretend to while nodding vigorously, but as time marches on, my advice seems to vanish into a black hole of indecision. I often find myself thinking, “Why won’t you just take my golden nuggets of wisdom?” Then I realized on a particularly enlightening Monday that there might be some sneaky variables at play—maybe they’re not ready or just can’t see the brilliance that’s glowing like a neon sign in front of them. Maybe they’re wondering how to get started, like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without instructions. There are just so many invisible hurdles—like trying to run a marathon in a hamster wheel—when you think about your own dreams for a better life. We know what we want, but sometimes it feels as close as the moon… or maybe just slightly out of reach like the last slice of pizza at a party! So now I can see why I should just wait for an invitation.

The other thing that bursted into my mind when reflecting on today’s topic is the sheer joy of living life to the fullest! Sharing this feels wonderful, even if it stirs a tiny bit of discomfort within me. Of course, I am determined to embrace every single moment of joy that life offers! Yet, I can’t shake this feeling of being a little selfish. You see, I adore people deeply, and my heart yearns for their greatness. But amidst this, I’ve discovered a profound loophole—prayer! Oh, the power of praying for others can ignite real transformation. God can touch their hearts in ways I never could, and I must lean into this truth even more. Now, back to the essence of savoring life! I believe today’s message urges us to make the most of our time, sharpen our focus on our aspirations, and shed any unnecessary stress that weighs us down. When we truly begin to relish life, we can hand over our worries and concerns to the Lord, allowing us to drink deeply from His well of grace. Less thinking, and much more Drinking!

It’s truly heartwarming that we aspire to assist others on their journeys, and it’s equally important to acknowledge that change cannot be imposed. Let’s explore ways to create a meaningful positive impact while honoring the autonomy of those we wish to support:

1. Focus on Support, Not Change

• Be a good listener: Sometimes, people simply need someone to hear them without judgment. Offer a safe space for them to express themselves.
• Offer practical help: If someone is struggling, offer concrete assistance. This could be anything from helping with a task to providing resources or information.
• Show empathy and compassion: Understand that everyone’s journey is different. Offer support and understanding without trying to fix their problems.

2. Lead by Example

• Live your values: Be the change you want to see in the world. When you embody positive qualities, you can inspire others without preaching.
• Share your experiences: If you’ve overcome challenges, share your story. This can offer hope and demonstrate that change is possible, but let them draw their own conclusions.

3. Respect Boundaries

• Avoid unsolicited advice: Unless someone asks for your opinion, it’s best to refrain from giving it. Unsolicited advice can be perceived as judgmental or controlling. ¹   1. How Unsolicited Advice Can Be Harmful To Your Relationships – Denver Metro Counseling denvermetrocounseling.com
• Don’t take things personally: If someone doesn’t take your advice or make the changes you hope for, it’s not a reflection on you. Everyone has their own path to follow.

4. Help in Ways That Empower

• Encourage self-reflection: Ask open-ended questions that help people explore their own thoughts and feelings. This can help them identify their own goals and solutions.
• Support their autonomy: Let people make their own choices, even if you don’t agree with them. True help empowers individuals to take control of their own lives.

5. Know Your Limits

• Don’t try to rescue everyone: It’s important to recognize that you can’t fix everyone’s problems. Focus on offering support where you can, but don’t take on more than you can handle.
• Take care of yourself: Helping others is important, but it’s equally important to prioritize your own well-being. Make sure you’re taking care of your physical and emotional needs.

Important Considerations:

• Change is an internal process: People change when they are ready, not when someone else wants them to.
• Focus on the positive: Celebrate small victories and progress. This can help motivate individuals on their journey.
• Be patient: Change takes time. Continue to offer support and understanding, even if you don’t see immediate results.

By offering your support, guiding with kindness, and honoring personal boundaries, you can create a meaningful impact in the lives of others, all while accepting them just as they are.

So enjoy your life and bye for now!

Have a beautiful, blessed day.

-Kenya ❤️‍🔥