Why is it so hard to change behavior?

Dear TAT® Friend,

Have you ever noticed how difficult it can be to start doing something that you know is good for you? Terri Chamberlin, our TATLife Business Manager, shares her personal experience with this:

What has to happen for us to take better care of ourselves? A health scare, a physical ailment, an upcoming reunion or wedding? Why do we need “events” as motivation to start exercising, eating healthier, turning off the television and taking a walk, clearing our minds, healing our hearts or just reducing stress?

Perhaps it’s as simple as we are in a rut and we need a little help to climb out of it. We can get stuck in patterns, behaviors and thoughts that we know aren’t good for us. We know we’re not happy with how things are, but it always seems to take an event to propel us into action. (Sometimes, that’s not even enough).

It takes me back to my first TAT® session with Tapas. It was a very difficult and stressful time in my life so I was a bit nervous, not sure of what to expect and not sure if it would help me, but I decided to try. As we started I quickly realized that there was nothing to be nervous about, I felt like I was sitting with a friend, someone who showed compassion and understanding right from the start. I knew it was okay to share whatever I wanted without editing. She wasn’t going to judge me for the thoughts or feelings I had. She was simply fully present for me while I shared the things going on in my life and as she guided me through my TAT session.

It’s difficult to describe the feeling I had when we were done. I felt astronomically lighter… like I had 30 years of pain lifted off my heart and shoulders. I felt taller and stronger and HAPPY! It was something I wanted to share with all the people in my life because I want everyone to feel like that.

It’s been almost 5 years since my first TAT session and I can wholeheartedly say that TAT has changed my life in the most amazing ways. Taking the first step toward change was incredibly difficult for me, but I’m so happy that I did. Life is easier, happier, and filled with hope. 

_________ 

Warmest wishes and smiles,

Tapas