Does Change Have to Be So Hard: Eight Mindset Strategies to Overcome Self-Sabotage and Take Control of Your Life

by Julie Donley

In search of an easier way to approach change…

What makes change so H.A.R.D.? We struggle to lose weight, change jobs, improve our relationships or our financial condition and even give up addictions. We succumb to our habits and accept a life of mediocrity, wishing it could be different and incessantly hoping for that magic solution. The reality is that we are creatures of habit and change can be uncomfortable.

Change requires hard work, consistency and time. We perceive it as a chore and most of us just don’t want to work that hard. Yet, there have been times in your life when you have made great change and it has brought you to a much better place. You were willing to do whatever it took to achieve the outcome you desired and you did it! You succeeded. Hard or easy, it’s how you think about it!
Your thinking is what makes change H.A.R.D. In this book, Dr. Donley provides a roadmap to understand your mind and how your thinking creates the obstacles to change. She describes the psychological and emotional aspects of change and explains the thinking that accounts for the real-life problems we encounter. She then guides you to confront and overcome the obstacles to success with eight strategies needed for making the changes you desire.
In this book you will learn how
- Gain personal insight and understanding into how you sabotage your efforts
- Identify your motivation for making a change
- Shift your perspective regarding time and expectations
- Create the internal and external supports required to achieve the results you desire
- Manage your emotions as part of the process of change
- Tame your fear and learn to master your negative inner dialogue.

This book is an easy-to-read, how-to manual providing insightful guidance on your journey toward a happier and healthier life. Author’s you may want to relinquish old ways of giving yourself a hard time in exchange for an easier way. Are you ready to play a new game? Are you ready to give up H.A.R.D. for EASY?

Genres: Nonfiction

223 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 25, 2011

About the author

Dr. Julie Donley, a seasoned leadership and coaching expert with over 30 years of experience, is a professional certified coach, author, and public speaker who helps leaders navigate challenges, reduce stress, and lead with confidence. A lifelong learner, Julie earned an EdD in Organizational Leadership, an MBA, and multiple other degrees and certifications. As a former executive nurse in behavioral health, she brings practical experience to her coaching and writing. Author of several books, including "Leading at the Speed of People," she simplifies complex concepts, offering clarity and practical tools for application. In her downtime, Julie enjoys riding her motorcycle alongside her husband. Visit her at https://drjuliedonley.com.

Reviews

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Changing behaviors can be a challenge, especially when people want to transform several things at once. According to this author, it shouldn't be viewed as a resolution, but rather as an evolution. Changing behaviors is a process that takes time and requires support. Once people are ready to make a change, the difficult part is committing to it and following through. That's why author Donley shares tips to ensure the change people want to make lasts.

I found this book very appropriate. In my opinion, this author's approach is sound, and her method is proven, since I tried it myself. Furthermore, I think her explanations are concise and clear, which is very necessary for the subject at hand. Without a doubt, a great book.

[CarlitasFox · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read
Right now, this is the book that I needed to read. “Does change have to be so hard?” is a read that helps readers understand the holding of change. In fact, it was really useful to me that I'd like to change my job. Julie Donley helps readers demystify change and destroy those stumbling blocks that prevent people from doing what they really desire to do. Along the chapters, she puts into words different anecdotes and stories that made her realise the importance of change and its hidden barriers. It's a book that encourages people to align thoughts with true desires.
It’s an excellent, well-explained book that can do wonders for those people who need a change to improve their lives. I definitely recommend it

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. Personally, I believe that there is nothing more important and challenging than change. It is what truly takes us where we want to be, because nothing in this life is immovable or static. In this book, you will find strategies for achieving lasting change, which is what is really difficult, because changing for a moment is easy, but making it part of your life is complex. A book where you will see, through the author's story, the importance of breaking with those beliefs, habits, and attachments that prevent us from changing and becoming our best selves. A highly recommended book, it opened my eyes and changed my life.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be totally honest, I really enjoyed reading this book because it not only restructures the paradigm of how we appreciate the changes in our lives, but it also teaches us that it is possible to step outside our comfort zone and start over.
Dr. Julie Donley shares her vast experience, personal insights, and extensive wisdom with the reader in this roadmap that is sure to impress anyone.
The book is well organized, making it an easy and agile read, and the quotes from famous people at the beginning of each chapter are a sublime touch that enriches the narrative.
This is the first time I read this author, but it will certainly not be the last.