The Beauty of Gradual Change

Western culture seems to focus on and applaud sudden, dramatic change, whereas in Eastern philosophies, it is gentle, gradual change which is held in much higher esteem. I would suggest that the focus on immediate, complete tranformation is what sets us up for frequent failure; we are much more likely to achieve lasting success from continuing to make small adjustments until we get where we want to be.

We celebrate and glamorise what we see as "overnight success" (which is rarely the case, anyway) and laugh at those who have been plugging away, making steady improvement. We are filled with wonder at "light bulb" moments, which are probably really an accummulation of information over time. Yes, it's the hare and tortoise again!

We want immediate, noticeable results from our latest diet or attempt to learn a musical instrument. In fact, give us a magic pill and we'd rather take that to avoid all the effort and heartache. But where's the sense of achievement in that, the learning from experience, the opportunity for growth and self-knowledge? Everything IS the process, life IS the journey - there is only one ending, and is that really what we're aiming for? Remind yourself of that, take those small steps one at a time, celebrate each small success, learn from mistakes, acknowledge the changes and make the most of all of it - there may not be a chance tomorrow.