I’m honored to be featured inside the Coach’s Corner of Business Venezuela Magazine, discussing the key to successful change. Inside my article, I share a little about my experience living in the Middle East, plus how to thrive through change and overcome challenges. There is one guarantee in life—things will change—and when they do, will you be ready?

The Key To Successful Change

In 2012, I embarked on a 28-hour journey that brought me across the world and landed me on the doorstep of one of my wildest dreams. There I was, soaking up the dramatic sea views and exotic smells while running my toes through the desert sand. Like the embrace of an old friend, the Arabian Sea was warm and inviting, unlike the cold Pacific Ocean back home. I remember the hand-carved wood door, tall and strong, silently guarding the entrance to my hotel room. From golden dates, which practically melted in my mouth, to the distinct smell of lemongrass mixed with hot Turkish coffee; everything was new and exciting.

As with any new adventure, the novelty soon faded, and I faced the daunting reality that I was living in a foreign country, with a language I didn’t speak, and a culture I didn’t fully understand. I remember struggling with the transition to midnight coaching calls and 4:00 am webinars with clients and colleagues in the States. I remember being in the car with my kids the first time I saw black smoke billowing into the sky. It was the sign of a tire burning, a potentially dangerous protest that often caused road closures and clashes with police. Life and business were dramatically different, but I was determined to thrive in my new environment, and that’s exactly what I did. They say that the first six months as an expat are the hardest and they’re right. However, that timeframe corresponds to other areas of life as well. Significant life changes such as a new job, a breakup, or a move are often accompanied by challenges and moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, especially during the first six months.

The key to overcoming challenges and making successful changes in life is to master our mindset. Our thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives will shape our experiences in either a positive or negative way. We can almost always improve our circumstances by shifting our mindset. When fearful thoughts and doubts entered my mind, I stopped for a moment to remember my dream. I turned my attention to the positive aspects of my life overseas; the new friends I’d made, the interesting cultures I’d been exposed to, and the opportunities that had opened up as a result of pursuing my dream. Even though I faced significant challenges at times, there was so much to be grateful for.

During the past several years, I’ve traveled the world, meeting incredible people from various backgrounds who are living their dreams too. I’ve heard countless stories of tragedy, triumph, and the will to overcome setbacks. Some have faced social pressures, political unrest, and economic difficulties, while others have been plagued by self-doubt, illness, or suffered from natural disasters. The common thread amongst these individuals is that they refuse to give up. So no matter how difficult your circumstances may be, I encourage you to embrace change, overcome challenges, and dig deep to find the courage to live your best life.

❤️ Rachel Aspen

P.S. Have you taken a risk on a big move or job change? Share your success story in the comments below! To learn more about developing a positive mindset, check out this episode of Infinite Success Radio.