From Stuck to Start: Getting Past the Fear of Change

Let’s be honest—change can feel terrifying.

Even when we know it’s time to move on, something keeps us stuck in the mud:

👉 A steady paycheck

👉 A familiar (if unfulfilling) routine

👉 The nagging voice that says, “What if I fail?”

​Psychology Today in a 2022 article lists some of the reasons for our fear of change such as:

·       our different thresholds for uncertainty and risk

·       dealing with losses

·       anticipating later regret

·       status quo bias

·       decision inertia

·       omission bias

And this list is hardly exhaustive – change may for instance trigger traumatic feelings of stress and anxiety according to PsychCentral. In my experience, change is an inevitable part of living and comes with a steady diet mixed in with the fog of uncertainty, portions of promise, sometime discomfort and adrenaline rush of achievement.  I remember 20 years ago starting my first business I wondered whether I “really” understood what I was getting into, mixed in with the excitement the venture may end up being a money earner ("excitement" won the day, while breakeven only came 3 years after).   We all deal with change differently.

So, while our fear of change may seem natural, right? Well, here’s another truth: You’ve already overcome more than you give yourself credit for. Each of us have a track record of dealing with change (forced, planned or for other reasons).

As a coach, I don’t give people the power to change nor grant them “magical” courage to cope with change. However, I can help you remember those episodes in your life when you have successfully navigated change. Everyone has their own unique stories and these can serve as a reminder you are capable of successful navigating change where desirable. Spend a minute today to reflect on some of the past successful change episodes in your life. Feel good about it.  

If you’re standing at the edge of a decision—retirement, a second-act career, a new life in a new land—it’s okay to feel nervous. But don’t let fear have the final say.

🔹 The future is not a gamble—it’s a choice AND

🔹 You don’t have to do it alone.

Let’s talk about what’s possible when you trust your experience and take that next small step.

📩 Book a free 30-minute consultation to explore what that next chapter of your life could look like—with support, not fear.