The Roots of Ambivalence
What hinders us from making a positive change?
Ambivalence is normal when it comes to behavior change. Recognizing its two root causes is key to resolving it.
1. Lack of understanding about the true cause of ambivalence can lead to self-judgments that keep us stuck.
2. Low importance and low confidence in making a change are the real roots of indecisiveness.
For instance, you might think: “I need to cut back on coffee [or sugar, or alcohol, or fill-in-the-blank], but it’s so hard and I’ve always gone back to it.”
“I should start exercising, but it’s tough to find the time.”
If we don’t feel strongly that a change is important or we lack confidence in making it happen, we’ll likely waver on how to move forward.
The solution: ask yourself:
* Is this change really important to me?
* Are there downsides or unappealing aspects of making this change?
* Do I have some doubt about whether I’ll be able to make or sustain this change?
If your answer is yes, you may be low on importance and confidence.
Source: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/awakening-motivation-for-change/202407/the-roots-of-ambivalence