30 May How Change Can Be as Good as a Holiday: Feeling Stuck and Demotivated!

We’ve all heard the saying, “A change is as good as a holiday.” But is there any truth to it? Psychologically, change—whether it’s altering your daily routine or taking on a new challenge—can provide benefits similar to those we experience during a holiday. Positive Wellbeing Psychology, a Melbourne-based practice, offers tailored support to help clients embrace change, reduce stress, and enhance their sense of well-being. Below, we explore the evidence-based psychology behind why change can feel as refreshing as a getaway, and how seeking support from a psychologist in Melbourne can make the process easier.

Why Change Feels Like a Holiday: The Science Behind It

1. Novelty and Dopamine

When we experience something new, our brain releases dopamine, the neurotransmitter linked to motivation and pleasure. This is why holidays, full of new sights and activities, feel invigorating. Similarly, introducing positive changes—like a new routine or goal—can provide the same boost in mental energy.

At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, our psychologists can help you create achievable lifestyle changes, which not only promote mental health but also improve mood and motivation.

2. Breaking the Routine: Stress Relief

Holidays break the monotony of daily life by providing a change of scenery. A change of scenery allows for new experiences, often introducing new interests and ways to relieve stress. However, research shows that even small changes, such as adjusting your daily routine, can have the same effect by disrupting automatic stress-inducing patterns.

If stress feels overwhelming, a psychologist near you can guide you in making intentional, manageable changes that lower cortisol levels and enhance resilience. Positive Wellbeing Psychology offers evidence-based approaches to help clients break free from stress cycles and restore balance.

3. Cognitive Flexibility and New Perspectives

Change allows us to see things differently, encouraging cognitive flexibility. Whether it’s a fresh environment on a holiday or a shift in mindset during life transitions, new experiences can reframe our thinking.

Our Melbourne psychologists use techniques like cognitive reframing to help clients adapt to change and view challenges as opportunities for growth. With professional support, you can learn how to shift your perspective in ways that promote mental clarity and emotional well-being.

4. Building Self-Efficacy Through Change

Psychologist Albert Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy highlights that mastering new challenges builds confidence and resilience. Much like the sense of achievement after a holiday adventure, successfully navigating change enhances your belief in your ability to manage life’s ups and downs. At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we work with clients to strengthen self-efficacy, helping them set realistic goals, develop coping strategies, and build long-term resilience.

Take the First Step Toward Positive Change

While holidays are a fantastic way to recharge, embracing positive change in your daily life can provide similar benefits—boosting your mood, lowering stress, and enhancing your overall well-being. At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we understand that change can be challenging, but with the right support, it can also be transformative.

If you’re ready to take that first step toward meaningful change, our Melbourne-based psychologists are here to help. Book an appointment today and start your journey toward a more positive, balanced life.

How Positive Wellbeing Psychology Can Help?

Positive Wellbeing Psychology provides compassionate, client-centred care tailored to your unique needs. Our experienced team of psychologists offers a range of evidence-based therapies to support you through life’s changes. If you are scrolling the internet to find ‘Psychologists Near Me’ or ‘Psychologist Near Me’ you might just be in the right place.

At Positive Wellbeing Psychology, we help clients learn effective techniques to manage stress and establish positive routines that promote balance in their lives. Our psychologists utilise a range of evidence-based therapy approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals in developing healthier thinking patterns and enhancing their mental flexibility.

Our Melbourne psychologists also provide collaborative support with goal-setting and motivation strategies, enabling clients to set realistic goals and maintain momentum in their personal growth journey. Additionally, we work with clients to strengthen their resilience, equipping them with personalised coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life’s demands, change doesn’t have to be daunting. Our psychologists can help you break free from old patterns, find new perspectives, and build a renewed sense of well-being.