The Fresh Paint Effect: How Small Changes Transform Everything

Wow! What a transformation! Who knew that with some vision, freshly painted walls could make such a difference?  I have lived in a small apartment complex for 10 years. Over the years, the paint has become worn. It was evident that a change was needed; however, it took some time to take action. We finally got approval from all owners to get the place painted, and it has made such a difference. This process wasn’t without hiccups, as the journey required trusting the vision for the painting and not being distracted by opposing opinions. Keeping the focus resulted in the property looking better, brighter, and renewed. The new painting, however, has also highlighted other areas that need to be renewed. It proved to be the impetus for even more changes, as the taste of renewal has given hope and renewed energy to continue improving our surroundings.

This experience of a small change making a big impact made me think about how small changes could help to inspire us and propel us forward. Just like that coat of paint made our complex feel brand new, there are areas in life that could benefit from a refresh. Here are four areas to consider refreshing:

1)      Health Habits

Are you investing in your health? It is easy to get lost in ‘work’ and use it as an excuse not to think about health, but it can catch up with us. I’m guilty of sitting down in front of my computer for hours daily. This action then impacted eating as terrible habits were developed, such as eating in front of the computer and grabbing whatever you see, whether it is healthy or not. I refreshed this area by being honest with myself and making a realistic plan.

I don’t love the gym, so I decided to start with something simple that I enjoy, playing badminton and walking. I also invested in a smartwatch that reminds me to get up, tracks my sleep, and provides me with insights based on AI integrations.

What small change could you make today to improve your health?

2)      Relationship Building

Just like repainting reveals areas that need more work, improving a relationship often begins with honest self-reflection and a willingness to invest time. For example, when was the last time that you spent real quality time with your loved ones? This can look like putting away the phone to have a deeper conversation. Summer is an ideal time to refresh relationships. It is a time when we may feel more relaxed and open to taking a break. It is easy to lose connection with our loved ones when we are bogged down in the daily grind. With one month left in the summer, take the time to do something new, create a new tradition and bond. Go to the beach, have a barbecue, plan a games evening, or go on a family trip if you can.

Relationships need intentional investment. What’s one thing you could do this week to refresh yours?

 3)      Career Management

Are you where you want to be in your career? One helpful tool to map your next step is an Individual Development Plan (IDP) [1]. Start by asking: Where do I want to be in 3-5 years? What do I need to get there? Even if you're not ready for a full IDP, simply revisiting your resume can be just the catalyst needed for your next move. It can serve as a reminder of accomplishments and the value you add.

You were made for more. What’s your next move?  

 4)      Spiritual Well-Being

This should be an easy area to nurture. However, this area sometimes feels like the hardest. It is the one that we take for granted. Little things I’m doing to be intentional include reading the verse on the Bible app, listening to Gospel music in the morning, and reading a book that feeds the soul. These little things can serve as a start.

What’s one habit that could feed your soul this week?

Start With One Bucket of Paint

Do you need a fresh start in one of these areas? Sometimes, all it takes is one small action equivalent to buying that first bucket of paint. Choose one area: Health, Relationships, Career, or Spiritual Well-being. Start there. That small change might be the spark that transforms everything. It will bring about renewal, spark creativity and ideas. Small actions create momentum for bigger changes.

Reference

1.      7 Individual Development Plan Examples Plus Ready-To-Use Templates - https://www.aihr.com/blog/individual-development-plan-examples/

Yolande Hylton is the Managing Director of Hylton Insights, an HR Consultancy Firm with a mandate to guide businesses from the transactional to the transformational HR realm, thereby enhancing individual and organizational performance. For inquiries or to learn more, you can reach out to yolande@hyltoninsights.com or visit www.hyltoninsights.com