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Hey, beautiful souls!

In this episode, I want to take you on a deeper dive into the idea of creating lasting change—change that’s not just about the actions you take on the surface, but the inner transformation that makes everything easier, more natural, and more in alignment with who you are becoming.

If you’ve ever tried to make a change in your life—whether it's adopting a healthier lifestyle, starting a new venture, or shifting your mindset—you know it can be tough. It can feel like you’re constantly pushing against resistance. You’ve set the intentions, you've made the plan, you’ve even taken the action, but somehow, it doesn’t stick. It’s like you’re pulling teeth to make it happen.

But what if I told you that the reason change feels so hard sometimes is that you're trying to change from the outside in? You're changing your environment, your behavior, and your results, but you're missing a key part: your identity.

Here’s the thing: When we wish to have an experience—like becoming a podcast host or getting fit—we’re actually calling forth a version of ourselves that has the capabilities to meet that need. The experience we desire isn’t just something external; it’s also an invitation for us to step into a higher version of ourselves, one that’s already aligned with those goals.

So, if we want to create change, we need to start with the deepest layer: our spirit and identity. Once we shift who we are being at the core, everything else falls into place. This isn’t a trickle-up pyramid of change. It’s a trickle-down, inside-out process that begins with spirit, moves into identity, and eventually influences our beliefs, values, behaviors, and environment.

The Spirit of Change: Calling Forth the Higher Self

When I look back on my own transformation, I see a clear pattern. It wasn’t just about moving through the motions or adjusting external circumstances. No, it was about a soul-level awakening that demanded I shift my identity.

This process often starts with a spiritual awakening—like the one I had in 2012—that shakes up everything you thought you knew about yourself and your life. Maybe it’s not as dramatic for you, but it’s a subtle shift that asks: Who am I really?

It’s in this space that your spirit calls forth a new identity. That’s when the magic happens: you’re no longer the same person who is trying to make the change. You are the person who embodies the change.

For example, let’s say you want to be a podcast host (hey, maybe you do—like me!). What version of you already knows how to be a podcast host? What beliefs and values does that version of you hold? What skills does she or he possess? What behaviors come naturally to them?

Start to ask yourself, Who do I need to become in order to have the experience I desire? This question will start to bring forth the answers. And when you start to be the version of yourself who already has that goal, the behaviors and choices will flow effortlessly.

From Identity to Action: Aligning with the Higher Version of You

When I first decided I wanted to step into the identity of a level-three pole dancer, I could feel resistance. I’d been working with my physical therapist, had a routine, but some days I’d feel like skipping my workout. I’d hear that inner voice saying, “Maybe tomorrow…” But then I would pause and tune into the version of me who was already a level-three pole dancer.

What would she do right now?

I imagined her saying: “Girl, remember how good it feels to dance, to feel strong, to express yourself? You know that workout is going to make you feel amazing and get you closer to that level-three pole dancer version of yourself.”

And just like that, my resistance melted away. Instead of forcing myself to work out, I was pulled toward it because I could see it through the lens of my future self. When you ask these types of questions—What would the version of me who has already achieved this do?—it shifts your perception and makes the work feel lighter.

The Power of Environment: A Little Support Goes a Long Way

Now, let me be clear: environment matters, too. You don’t need to move to a different country to create transformation (though if you’re feeling called to that, go for it!). But immersing yourself in new experiences, new people, and even new ways of thinking can create the conditions for change to happen.

When I lived in Australia for a semester in college, everything about my environment shifted. From the culture to the transportation system to the food, it was a full-on immersion. And guess what? My values and beliefs shifted as well. I went vegetarian, I stopped using a microwave, and I even adopted some Aussie slang (and yes, I called it “Melbourne” the way they do!). This was a beautiful example of how an environment can influence identity and beliefs, which then ripple out into behaviors and actions.

But even if you’re not moving across the world, you can still create the same effect by surrounding yourself with people who are aligned with the change you wish to make. Whether it’s a coach, a mentor, or a supportive community, the right environment can help you stay on track when you’re making a shift.

The Inside-Out Approach: Embrace Your Power

Creating lasting change doesn’t have to be a battle. When you align your spirit, identity, values, and beliefs, you stop fighting yourself. You start to naturally do the things that will get you to your goal.

If you’re feeling stuck, take a moment to ask yourself: What version of me is already living the life I want? Then, let that version of you guide your next steps. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly the universe starts to align with your new identity, and before you know it, you’ll be embodying that version of yourself more fully.

And remember, if you feel like you need support in shifting your identity or need a guide to help you navigate the inner work, I’m here for you. I’ve got some one-on-one spots open right now, and I’d love to help you step into your next level. If that resonates with you, hit me up—let’s have a conversation and see how we can work together.

Thank you for tuning in today, and as always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Reach out to me on Instagram, or shoot me a message—I’m here to connect and support you.

Until next time, take care and keep embodying the version of you who’s already living the life you desire.

🌿 Want to listen to this episode instead? You can catch it here:
👉 The Spiritually Embodied Leader Podcast – Episode Link

With love and embodiment,
Cynthia ✨