Life Architecture In my life and in the work I do with helping others set and meet goals, transformation is often required and it comes with pleasures and pain.  During such times I find it helpful to look to successful examples for guidance and inspiration to endure the process.  For instance, consider the tadpole or the caterpillar.  These creatures endure the ultimate growing pains in order to achieve the pleasure of transformation.    As Spring approaches, traditionally a time of transformation and blossoming, I'm offering Four Tips For Transformation that I've learned from our fellow creatures in nature.    1. Commit to Transform Commit yourself to transforming yourself through your actions and attitude.  There is no turning back for the tadpole or caterpillar. 2. Part with the Past Be willing to literally shed old habits, end relationships and give up ways of being that don’t serve you in your commitment.  Be inspired by the magnitude of what the tadpole and the caterpillar give up (e.g., breathing and moving as they once did). 3. Surround Yourself with Support The caterpillar relies on a cocoon to support it through its transformation to take flight and the tadpole transforms in its first environment of water before hopping onto land to experience a whole new world.  Enlist the help of loved ones, use supportive strategies or adapt your living or working environment to serve your new purpose. 4. Practice Patience If you’ve ever peaked into a cocoon or can recall the image of a tadpole with a tail AND legs, you can appreciate how this metamorphosis is not immediate.  Yet, if the steps above are followed, transformation is consistently visible and comes in time! Be Well, Dr. Elli, Life Architect Elysa Roberts, PhD, OTR/L