When you think of the word ‘play’ what comes to mind? A Broadway Show…a children’s playground? Each of these venues share a common fundamental—namely imagination and the ability to change oneself into another character or to be in another place at whim.

Change is a constant and an essential catalyst for reinventing our selves, our lives, and our work. Change also evokes different emotions in people. It can be scary or highly enlightening, eagerly anticipated or avoided at all costs. Change usually takes courage and tenacity, especially when there is no guarantee of success. But it’s when we don’t move with change that problems can occur and too much change at a too constant pace can create a mass of instability. No matter how stressful or overwhelming the situation may initially present itself, the key to coping successfully is to find a workable middle ground then pulling out all distractions until all you have is the core to concentrate on.

In my long experience as a teacher, consultant, and coach, I have found that many people yearn for change, but only if things stay basically the same or else they have unrealistic expectations about who and what they want to become. Some individuals undergo drastic lifestyle and image changes only to find that they still have the same problems that they had before.

Seeing yourself as others see you can be either a very positive or a rather sobering learning experience. Being who you really are from the inside out by developing your own personal style—which includes the physical and psychological aspects of image–can be an extremely empowering tool in dealing with life and work. It lends clout to every situation and helps to focus and define your goals along with creating a smoother path to personal and career success.

Reinventing oneself is much easier and less daunting than it may initially appear. Start by igniting your imagination again. Do some active daydreaming. This is also an excellent remedy for getting through those rough spots. Make a realistic list of what your ‘ideal’ consists of— for example—your career or business, your image, or how you want to spend your down time. Then, and this is the best way to begin your transformation, clean out all the clutter in your life—your closets, drawers, bookshelves, bathroom, office, everything…or anyone. Get all your papers in order, simplify wherever you can, and be merciless. This is your life that you’re improving! It’s quite amazing how taking stock can both enlighten and inspire. Changing your surroundings, no matter how trivial the change, can be a motivating force when you feel the positive effects. No matter how heavy your schedule or obligations, it is important to give yourself moments where it’s all about you without feeling guilty or selfish. Don’t wait for a ‘special’ occasion to celebrate. This purging process will actually buy you time as well as peace of mind. It might just be the antidote—if you can’t change it, change the way you look at it–and it doesn’t cost a thing.

After you get yourself organized you can focus on a few important questions such as: Are you feeling under-appreciated? Frustrated? In a time warp? Lacking direction? Plain fed up? Bored? Most importantly–Are you getting what you want when you want it?

Knowing what needs to be changed and remaining focused can simplify the reinvention process. Avoid becoming overwhelmed. Start with small changes—it’s the little things that make the biggest difference over time and cause the least amount of friction. It may also help to know that even key executives, huge corporations, and A-List celebrities need to reinvent themselves from time to time to stay on top.

It may be as simple as an attitude adjustment, a different route to work, or learning to delegate chores. You may be considering a career transition, starting a business, or a major lifestyle move. The key to successful reinvention is to be true to yourself and keep your eye on your prize. You must also know the difference between what is real and what you just made up. As mere mortals, we have a tendency to make up scenarios in our dramatic minds about how episodes in our lives will play out. Usually these scenarios are not accurate and generate much anxiety and time-wasting activity. Deal with what’s real and don’t sweat the rest. Here are a few other basic starting tips to help get you where you’re going:

–When in doubt…ask questions! Don’t pretend you know something when you don’t. Even If you find out that someone has expressed a negative view about you ask the person why and if you get a positive assessment, thank her and ask why, too! Courage and humility are very liberating qualities.

–Use charm and sincerity. Be aware of whhat the other person is saying and doing. Get them to talk. Offer advice and solutions. Learn to give compliments. You’d be surprised how much clout you can gain from listening to people— from difficult family members to indifferent sales people– including those all-imposing gatekeepers. This is a great strategy for career transitions and getting back favors when you really need them.

–Keep on track! Don’t listen to just anyyone when it comes to your goals and dreams. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people. Take negativity with a grain of salt and be careful with whom you choose to discuss your plans.

–If it’s not that important or doesn’t ffeel right, pass it over. Set your priorities based on your ideal. Saying no will get you a long way.

–Do your homework! Get the resources youu need to be successful on your journey. Networking and partnering with others that have the expertise that you lack can also be a helpful steppingstone. Consider hiring a coach or finding a mentor. Always be aware of your competitors and learn from them.

–Your image speaks volumes. What is yourrs saying about you? First impressions can make or break an important personal or business opportunity. Your personal style reflects off of everything and everyone you encounter. Is your first impression a powerful and memorable one?

–“It’s not what you say, but how you sayy it!’ Enough said. Period.

Using change as a vehicle to reinvent our selves, our lives, and our businesses is like getting a jump-start on the process. Whatever the reason, remember that it is a process and takes time—like losing weight or quitting smoking. It is also a journey of self-discovery. Like any important change, there may be moments of doubt, backsliding, and even anxiety. But there will also be moments of exhilaration, self-satisfaction, and sheer joy. Time is a valuable commodity simply because it passes and moves us forward, often before we realize it, to another place. It’s who we are more than what we do in that place that really matters. Having a strong sense of self is like a magnet for opportunity. And patience really is a virtue.

Give yourself some down time to re-focus, even if it’s just a walk around the block. Take the time to observe your environment and try slowing down just a notch. You might be amazed at what…and whom… you discover along the way.