Change

A framed poster on the office wall of a former colleague was of the comic figure Dilbert with the words "Change is difficult...YOU go first!"  Sage expression.  Fear of the unknown, of change, can keep an individual in a situation far from satisfactory - sticking with the familiar rather than risking something new.  Counseling an individual in an abusive relationship would be the most glaring example of this phenomenon.  Though a glimmer of light may shine at the end of a long tunnel to freedom, choosing to stay can seem the only option.  Those of us on the outside may easily see the benefits of leaving, from the inside of the relationship leaving seems impossible.  Only through the often difficult work of counseling, a workable escape plan, and the state of mind to drive the process, can the individual hope to embrace change.  This same model applies to anyone facing the possibility of change.  Though the scenario may seem far less dire than the one highlighted above, finding the courage to change any unsatisfactory life situation can feel overwhelming.  Exploring options, building a change plan, and finding the courage to get started could be the beginning of something new.  The poster could then be "Change is difficult....I'LL go first!"