The Three Elements of Personal Change

Why do some people change overnight… while others stay stuck for years?

This question came up in Claire Perry-Louise’s Like Hearted Leaders community, when fellow member Grace asked:

“Why do we say change is so hard, when sometimes it can be sudden and easy?”

It got me reflecting on what I’ve seen after working with 200+ people in our Vision 20/20 programme.

From that experience, I’ve noticed there are three elements that trigger change:

1️⃣ You Driving Desire

A wish to change usually comes from one of two places:

• Escaping pain: the pain of staying the same becomes unbearable. This will trigger movement — but it’s directionless. You might end up somewhere different, but not necessarily somewhere better.

• Moving towards a vision: you’re pulled forward by something enticing, meaningful, and clear. That vision gives direction, not just relief.

Both can trigger change. But one leads to growth by accident. The other leads to growth by design.

2️⃣ Your Surrounding Environment

Change doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s shaped by the people you surround yourself with.

Some create the conditions for growth — supporting you, believing in you, holding you accountable.

Others (often unconsciously) project their own fears and limiting beliefs onto you.

If you’re in the wrong environment, progress stalls. If you’re in the right one, change accelerates.

3️⃣ Your Inner Script

And sometimes the last barrier is inside.

I’ve seen seasoned professionals with a clear vision, a strong support network, and every reason to succeed…

But they’re held back by one belief: “Other people’s needs come before mine.”

The reframe is simple but powerful:

“If I meet my own needs first, I’ll actually have the energy and clarity to meet the needs of others more powerfully and flowfully.”

When that puzzle piece clicks, everything shifts. What felt uphill suddenly flows.

That’s why change can look “sudden” from the outside.

In reality, it’s just the last piece of the puzzle falling into place.

👉 Which of these three — Driving Desire, Surrounding Environment, or Inner Script — feels like your current edge for change?