The shift in seasons or a new page on the calendar can be an ideal moment to instigate change. The Fresh Start Effect demonstrates that you can engineer opportunities for transformation at any time — simply harness the power of your calendar.
“The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is now”
The Internet (many wise people)
The quote above underscores two fundamental truths about initiating change: There’s always an opportunity for a fresh beginning, and taking that first step is crucial to achieving long-term success.
When considering transformative actions, be it for your organization, team, or personal growth, the starting point is essential. Although starting early, like saving for your future, has advantages, it doesn’t diminish the power of taking action now. There’s nothing you can do about the past, but the present moment can mean everything to the future.
Starting and Re-starting
Change doesn’t always require grand gestures or perfect timing. Procrastinating for the ideal moment is often just an excuse. A renewed start can make the difference from “could have, might have or should have” statements to “I did and we did” ones.
New beginnings are always within our reach.
Katy Milkman’s research, among others, highlights the potential in anchoring our change to significant dates like birthdays, anniversaries, or the turn of the calendar year, a phenomenon termed the “Fresh Start Effect.”
Milkman and colleagues have found that people are more inclined to initiate and maintain changes when it is tied to a notable date or event. Furthermore, these symbolic ‘starts’ can motivate people to try again after initial failed attempts at change. Given that many of our efforts to change don’t always succeed at first, this insight is invaluable. We always have a second (or third) chance.
Crafting Your Fresh Start
So, how do you harness the Fresh Start Effect? Firstly, pick a date — the day you decide to embark on this change journey. This date must hold some significance for you, even if its importance is self-imposed.
Commitment is the next step. Embrace your chosen date with gravity. This explains why major life events or cultural milestones like anniversaries, New Year’s Eve, or holidays are popular choices; they carry symbolic weight.
Persistence is your third tool. Continuously work on the change, and if setbacks occur, unless the change isn’t needed anymore, keep pushing forward.
Lastly, evaluate. Assess your progress, ensure feedback is clear and actionable, and adjust your approach if results aren’t forthcoming.
Combine these elements, and you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey today for a brighter tomorrow.
Now, take action. Plant that seed for the future and the trees will grow.
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