Change is an inevitable part of life. Whether it manifests as a shift in your career, an unexpected challenge in your personal life, or even a subtle adjustment in your perspective, change often requires us to pause, reflect, and reset. Yet, many of us find ourselves grappling with the stress of trying to navigate it—caught in a loop of overthinking, ruminating, or creating a mental reel of worst-case scenarios. Embracing change can lead to positive and unexpected personal growth.
In moments like these, I’ve discovered that one of the simplest actions—a brisk walk—can be a powerful catalyst for transformation. Walking not only clears my head but also opens the door to new ideas and possibilities. It’s not just about movement; it’s a mindset reset that helps me embrace change with clarity and confidence.
Breaking Free from the Loop
When we’re caught in the whirlwind of looping thoughts, it can feel almost impossible to escape. It’s easy to let stress compound as we run through the same scenarios repeatedly. But stepping outside and changing your environment—even for just a short walk—can help disrupt those thought patterns and create the mental space needed for fresh perspectives.
Why Walking Works
Here are the reasons why a brisk walk is my go-to solution for finding clarity in the face of change:
- Change your surroundings: Walking allows you to leave behind your desk, your screen, and the mental clutter that keeps you stuck. Whether it’s strolling through a park, exploring your neighbourhood, visiting the beach, or simply walking around the block, the new sights and sounds bring a sense of renewal and spark creative ideas.
- Find your rhythm: Walking at an intentional pace—not a slow stroll, but something invigorating—creates a calming yet energizing rhythm. The repetitive motion helps quiet the chaos in your mind. Personally, I prefer limiting distractions during these walks—no podcasts or company. Sometimes I’ll listen to upbeat music, but often, I simply embrace the quiet.
- Be present: At first, my mind might still focus on the problem at hand, but as I settle into my stride, I start noticing what’s around me—the sound of birds, the vibrant colours of flowers, the architecture of familiar streets I’ve never truly seen before. This grounding in the present moment often brings new ideas and solutions to the surface.
- Be open: Adapting to change requires letting go of fixed perspectives. A walk reminds me to loosen my grip on my own point of view. If I cling too tightly to it, I’ll only block potential resolutions or insights. Sometimes, the walk helps me accept what’s beyond my control—and this acceptance is often the first step toward moving forward.
Walking as a Metaphor for Change
The act of walking itself mirrors the journey of embracing change. Each step forward is a reminder that progress happens incrementally. Change often doesn’t come in a giant leap but through small, consistent actions—like the rhythm of your walk.
As we move, we learn to adapt—to the weather, the terrain, or even the changing scenery around us. Similarly, embracing change requires flexibility and resilience. It’s about being present in the moment while also looking ahead to the path you’re forging.
Turning Stress into Growth
Stress and change are intertwined, but they don’t have to be adversaries. Stress, when reframed, can be the pressure that drives growth. Walking helps turn this stress into a productive force by clearing your mind and helping you focus your energy on what truly matters.
What’s Your Reset?
For me, walking is the ultimate reset—a way to break free from looping thoughts and embrace change with open-mindedness and clarity. Perhaps your reset looks different. Maybe it’s journaling, meditating, painting, or even gardening. The key is finding what works for you and using it as a tool to navigate life’s inevitable transitions.
I’d love to hear your go-to strategies for embracing change and breaking free from stress. Share your ideas, and who knows? You might inspire someone else to take their first step toward transformation. Change doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools and mindset, it can lead to growth, creativity, and new possibilities. So, next time you find yourself stuck, consider stepping outside for a brisk walk. You might just find that the path forward is clearer than you imagined.
Here is an article that links to research and more information on the benefits of walking.
Need some help navigating change in your organisation? Reach out to Lenore to discuss your organisations unique challenges or to organise change coaching or training for your workplace.
Photo by Emma Simpson on Unsplash