Alexandra Konstanti

Recontemplation

Are you good with changes? Do they resonate well with you? I’m not talking about major upheavals here—let’s take it step by step.

Do you find it easy to choose a new route to work, get your coffee from a different shop, or even try a new blend? Maybe consider ordering a flat white instead of the usual cappuccino that Tanja, your familiar barista, prepares the moment she sees you.

As you scroll through your phone while listening to a podcast about life changes, you attempt to forward the ninth hilarious meme of the day to your bestie, but suddenly, your phone crashes. Reality hits—you need to get a new phone.

What about the bigger changes? Clothes, shoes, cutlery, beds, and chairs… Is the idea of moving out and calling a stranger’s house home something you can bear easily?

Bigger Changes, Bigger Steps From…

I dare you to think a bit further. A friend of yours recently moved to another country for work. You threw him a heartfelt farewell party, celebrating his new adventure. As you watched him pack, what were your thoughts? “What a weirdo”? Or “What a brave thing to do”? Perhaps you even found yourself saying, “I wouldn’t do it even if someone were paying me,” but deep down, there was a flicker of envy or inspiration.

Now, consider the idea of a career change. How does that feel? Martha Stewart made a career shift at 35, transitioning from stockbroker to lifestyle mogul. Vera Wang became a renowned designer in her 40s. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was elected President of India after a distinguished career as a scientist at 70.

Let’s take it a little deeper. The patterns of our behaviors, habits, and ways of reacting to people and situations are not fixed—they’re changeable. Instead of automatically saying an expected “yes,” imagine confidently articulating “no.”

Beloved Comfort Zone

(Contemplation)

My beloved Comfort Zone,

Before all the psychology, self- improvement movement, “How to be a better version of yourself “attitude, I didn’t even acknowledge your existence. I sat there, just living- or not- my life and you were there keeping me safe and sound.

But lately, I’ve started to wonder—what else is out there? What lies beyond the walls you’ve built around me? You’ve protected me, but you’ve also held me back. Every time I think about stepping beyond you, self-doubt and anxiety begin to swell. I want to retreat—to lay down, binge-watch some series, feel “normal” again, and curl up with my cozy blanket.

My breath quickens, my mind races, and a whisper “I’m no good for this.”

The Tug of War Within

A spark of excitement hits, and for a moment, you know you can do it. The path to change seems clear, the plan perfect. But then, almost without warning, that voice—the one that claims you’re too weak, not good enough, or simply not ready—slips in, and your resolve wavers. Suddenly, the enthusiasm fades, and you start questioning whether you even belong on this new path.

Back To Small Steps

(Preparation and Action)

My brain, you are made to keep me safe. Yet, here’s the thing: relapse isn’t failure. It’s a signal that I am pushing beyond the edges of my comfort zone. Setbacks aren’t reasons to stop—they’re proof that I’m growing.

• Just like mountain climbers. Mountain climbers carefully plan their routes, breaking them down into smaller, achievable goals. They allow time to adjust, savor moments of familiarity, and take deep breaths to center body and mind. After calming their spirits, they push forward to the next phase of their journey.

• Children approach life with vivid imagination, courage, and excitement. They dream of performing on stage or uncovering the 8th world wonder in their backyard. Envisioning fuels change. Just like children, you can take a glimpse of what your life will be after the change. What is it that you look forward to with love and excitement? Let that vision guide you.

• Just like in supportive communities, where people share common passions and values, they listen, motivate, and uplift each other. They offer encouragement and confidence, recognizing the need for change and helping to spark action. Reaching out for help and support from those around you becomes a powerful fuel for your progress.

So, beloved Comfort Zone, it’s time for a change. I won’t abandon you completely—you’ll still be there when I need to rest. But I can no longer let you control my pace.

I struggle and I will continue struggling. But I will say it. I don’t want to be perfect. I want to persist, to endure and finally see…

What of a person I am meant to become.