Keith Bond

You Are 100% Responsible For Your Life! – PART I Chapter 2 – Recognising Your Power to Change – Action Exercises

Reflect on three aspects you aspire to change in your life and provide reasons for your choices.

Example: (Use some of these or pick your own)

1. Physical Health: For far too long, I neglected my body by consuming unhealthy food, irregular eating habits, and lack of exercise, leading to tiredness, sluggishness, and health issues. To change this, I’m adopting a healthier lifestyle. I’ll increase my intake of fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated with more water, and reduce sugar, salt, and fat in my diet. Additionally, I’ll incorporate enjoyable exercises like swimming and dancing into my routine to boost my energy, mood, and overall confidence.
2. Mental Well-Being: Stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem have been affecting my happiness, relationships, and productivity. To address this, I’ll practice positive thinking and mindfulness. I’ll focus on the present, appreciate what I have, and celebrate my achievements. Moreover, I’ll challenge myself to try new things, learn new skills, and overcome fears, like learning a foreign language or participating in a cultural exchange program. These steps will enhance my creativity, resilience, and self-esteem.
3. Academic Performance: I’ve been underperforming academically due to lack of interest, motivation, and poor organization. To improve, I’ll develop good study habits and strategies. Setting specific goals for each subject, planning ahead for assignments and exams, and managing time effectively will be my priorities. Additionally, I won’t hesitate to seek help from teachers or peers when I encounter difficulties. By boosting my academic performance, I’ll gain valuable knowledge, skills, and confidence for future opportunities and my career.

Compose a letter addressed to your future self, detailing the transformations you have undergone and the accomplishments you have attained.

Example:

Dear Future Me,

I’m writing from 2023, a 25-year-old with dreams and aspirations. I wonder how you’re doing in 2033, at 35 years old, having likely achieved many goals. Let me share my transformations and accomplishments from the past decade.

Physically, I’ve lost weight, gained muscle, and improved my posture. Adopting a healthier lifestyle with balanced meals, regular exercise, and more water has made me feel energetic, confident, and attractive. I’ve also changed my appearance, sporting short hair, tattoos, and colorful clothes, feeling more expressive and unique.

Mentally, I’ve conquered anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Coping with stress, anger, and frustration, I’ve developed a positive attitude, growth mindset, and gratitude. I now feel calmer, happier, and more optimistic. Embracing an open-minded, curious, and adventurous perspective has left me feeling enlightened, inspired, and fulfilled.

Academically, I achieved a bachelor’s in computer science with honors and pursued a master’s in artificial intelligence at a prestigious university. Gaining new skills and knowledge, I now feel competent, intelligent, and innovative. As a successful software engineer at a leading company, I’m passionate, productive, and rewarded.

Socially, I’ve made new friends, explored new places, and strengthened family and partner relationships. Improved communication, empathy, and compromise have left me feeling more connected, supported, and loved. Contributing through volunteering, donations, and advocacy has instilled a sense of responsibility, generosity, and compassion.

Challenges along the way, like failures, rejections, and losses, have made me stronger. I hope you’re proud of yourself in 2033—the result of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Continue to evolve positively, unlocking potentials, achieving goals, and embracing new experiences.

There’s still much to learn, people to meet, and places to visit. Embrace opportunities, solve problems, and make meaningful contributions. Never stop changing, always moving towards the ultimate destination: happiness.

With love,

Your Past Self

Create a narrative featuring a character who confronts a formidable obstacle and triumphs through their ability to embrace change.

Example:

Once upon a time, in a land of challenges, there lived a resilient character named Emily. She encountered an overwhelming obstacle that tested her strength and resilience. However, through her unwavering determination to embrace change, she emerged victorious….

Craft a poem that captures the essence of your emotions regarding change and its profound impact on your life.

Example:

Change, an ever-shifting tide, Bringing growth, fear, and pride. Transforming my world, in ways untold, A dance of emotions, so bold.

Compile a set of affirmations that serve as constant reminders of your inherent capacity to initiate change and recite them aloud daily.

Example:

I am capable of change. My potential knows no bounds. With each day, I embrace the power within me to create a better future.

Maintain a gratitude journal where you record at least one thing you appreciate each day, reflecting on how it correlates with your ability to enact change.

Example:

Today, I am grateful for the support of my loved ones, as their encouragement fuels my drive for positive change.

Compose a review discussing a book, movie, or song that inspires you to embrace change and elucidate how it resonates with your personal journey.

Example:

The book “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is an awe-inspiring tale that resonates deeply with my personal journey of transformation. It encourages readers to pursue their dreams and embrace the winds of change, reminding us that the power to change resides within us all.

You can benefit from reviewing these exercises periodically and comparing your current answers with your previous ones. This will help you see how much progress you have made and reflect on your growth.