Same

Same… “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” -Rita Mae Brown (usually accredited to Einstein)

We want change, but we really do not want to change what we are doing, or how we are thinking about something. We want to do the same things  and think the same thoughts, but get our desired results. I have seen this over and over in my life and as I have listened and counselled many people. We talk a great talk, dream big dreams, but then do the same thing we have been doing, and life continues on the same. The shocking thing is we are truly surprised when things don’t change.

We keep dating the same person, expecting change because we wish it to be. We stay miserable in a job that we do not leave or alter the situation. We complain about our marriage, or our kids but continue to do the same thing, so nothing changes and we are truly disappointed. We are strange creatures.

It is amazing though how even a slight change in thought can change a situation. Choosing to see someone or something in a new way can change our thoughts and actions. Adding gratitude to most situations improves them at least a little, or it least empowers us enough to start looking for how we can change a situation. Owning our part helps us break free from the victim mentality.

As mom of little kids I would forget how much control I had over what was allowed. We would sink into a pit of whininess, both them and me. I would get frustrated, at first joining in the whining and complaining, until finally it would dawn on me that I was the one allowing it, and now it was my job to lead the way out. I needed to be the one to stop it, first in my own life, and then holding my kids accountable to cease and desist the unwanted behavior. I could not continue in the same pattern if I expected anything to change.

I am reminded of those situations when I am in a funk or annoyed with a situation or person. I know I need to ask myself is there something I can change, if not, do I know someone who can help, and if not, then I can pray that God will change the situation, or my heart and mind towards it. There is no reason to stay in that static mindset. Change is always possible on some level, and the heart level is usually the best place to start.

* I am joining Five Minute Fridays in a 31 day Writing Challenge. Each day I will be writing on a different word prompt for at least 5 minutes for the month of October.

**Check out 2018’s 31 Day Writing Challenge https://inkblotlife.com/category/write-31-days-2018/