If we know choices influence occupations, how do we get clients to make different choices? Like the choice to implement a new strategy, adapt the environment, change the routine or modify the occupation?
The answer is simple… yet complex.
A persons choices are tied up in their deeply ingrained belief systems. Belief systems are why people do what they do.
Throughout our lifetime we develop a set of beliefs based on what we believe is right or wrong, good or bad, safe or dangerous, beautiful or ugly, acceptable or unacceptable. These beliefs are molded based on our upbringing, culture, experiences, environment and the media we’re exposed to on a daily basis. Beliefs shape who we are, how we live our life and the way in which we view the world.
The equation itself is quite simple – change people’s belief systems so they can make better choices, participate in more health promoting occupations and therefore change their overall wellbeing and life trajectory.
The thing is, it’s not our job to change people’s belief systems. It’s our job to understand their daily realities. It’s our job to understand their unique narrative. Their story. Their culture. Their life. It’s our job to meet people where they’re at on their journey. We have the opportunity and privilege to spark an awareness of their current beliefs that may be keeping them stuck and impart education to support change based on their readiness to do so.
Education can have such a profound impact on a person’s personal growth. It has the ability to reprogram the brain and create new belief systems. Education is the invitation to create change. Whether or not a person acts upon the new found information is out of our hands.
So don’t stop doing your thing. Keep holding space, knowing that you’ve met you’re client on the bridge between where they are now and where they want to be. Keep educating, knowing that your message will land with the people who are meant to hear it. And keep leading by example, knowing that there are silent observers inspired by the small ways you show up and live your life.
Oh, and P.S…..this is only my belief.
