Babysteps for transformation
How do you feel about change?
My pastor often says that “change” is a swearword for many people. And yet, our experiences—or simply growing older—inevitably change who we are. We may not lose the core essence of our personality, yet our behavior, opinions, emotions, and even our bodies are shaped by the journeys we walk and the relationships we form.
The change that comes from daily living is often so subtle we don’t even perceive it. But if you compare your thoughts and actions today to those from ten years ago, I’m sure you’ll notice some differences.
According to Jesus, while He doesn't change, life as we experience it is constant change: Each day we repent from our sins, striving to change our ways in order to live more in alignment to God's will. He is continually doing something new (Isaiah 43:19) and He also commands and instructs us to be transformed, intentionally. And this is true not only for individuals but for churches, too. The Book of Revelation offers strong calls for change—specifically directed at congregations. We are not alone in experiencing transformation; everything and everyone around us is in transformation.
But this raises an important question about intentionality: What is worth holding on to, and what should be changed? And if change is often so subtle we barely notice it, how can we choose how to change?
What should be your focus?
Like I wrote in my previous blogpost, bringing our focus to the present moment can make a profound difference in our relationships and sense of fulfillment. Focus is just as essential in the process of change. What you focus on receives your energy and time. Often, you gain deeper understanding of what you're observing and experiencing. This is true in both good and bad: if you focus on good things that do not change, you'll probably become more content. If you focus on negative things you can't change, you'll likely grow sad or depressed.
If change is inevitable, shouldn’t we aim to change for the better? While we can't change everything we want, how about giving attention to the things we CAN change?
Babysteps!
If this resonates with you, let me ask you: What should you be focusing on in your life right now to live more fully? What is one small thing you can do today that takes you a baby step closer to who you want to be—or who you were created to be?
Have you read "Atomic Habits" by James Clear? He explains beautifully how small, seemingly insignificant changes—when made intentionally—can have life-changing long-term effects. When you consistently make the right choice in small matters, you're quietly stepping toward your life goals. Jesus expresses this principle like this: “You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.” (Matthew 25:21)
Let me give you a personal example. I recently completed an NCD eTest to evaluate the wholeness of my life. One key takeaway was that, to live more fully, I need to grow in my ability to walk alongside others in both their joys and sorrows—in other words, to practice empathy. It doesn’t come too naturally to me to say things like “Good job” or “I’m sorry you’re going through this.” I tend to focus on what's next—what can be changed (just like I’m doing in this blog post!). But I’ve come to realize that grieving or rejoicing with someone lays a foundation for the next steps or future conversations, when the time is right.
So I’ve set an intention to grow in this area. I’m learning how to express empathy and joy over someone else’s experience. For example, if someone shares that they’re feeling depressed, I'll practice articulating my compassion for them. It doesn’t have to be special words, just a simple expression of empathy. Or if I’m physically present, I might gently place my hand in theirs and simply be quiet.
These words or gestures may seem small and insignificant—but for me, they’re difficult. And for the other person, they can make a world of difference. And eventually, I might become a person who can be described as empathetic. Maybe not anytime soon, but one day!
Ready to explore further?
If this reflection sparked something in you—maybe a longing for greater clarity, wholeness, or purpose—I’d love to invite you to explore it further. What if now is the perfect moment to pause, refocus, and take one intentional step toward becoming a more integrated and content version of yourself?
If you’d like someone to journey with you through that process, I’d be honored to be your coach. You can easily book an appointment with me through Calendly. I look forward to hearing from you and encouraging your next step forward.