In today’s fast-paced world, understanding the difference between a shift in center of gravity and a change in state is essential for personal growth, decision-making, and overall quality of life.
A shift in center of gravity refers to a significant change in our lives—a deep, structural transformation that alters how we think, act, and relate to the world.
A change in state, on the other hand, is more superficial, often related to a shift in mood or circumstances—temporary and fleeting.
Recognizing the distinction between these two is crucial as we navigate life’s challenges.
A shift in center of gravity
A shift in center of gravity involves a fundamental transformation in our identity, worldview, or life situation—where the «weight» of our life moves from one existential stage to another.
For example, the transition from adolescence to adulthood, or from a period of crisis to a phase of new stability, is a phase shift. These moments often reflect a profound reorientation in how we relate to ourselves and the world.
A shift in center of gravity requires time, self-awareness, and intentionality.
When this inner axis shifts, everything in our lives—beliefs, values, goals, and behaviors—realigns to support the new stage; the new stability.
This may mean moving from a self-centered phase to a more empathetic, other-oriented way of being, or from a focus on career progression, titles, and status to a deeper search for purpose and meaning.
In these transitions, our self-understanding is redefined, and the new stage becomes the lens through which we now experience life.
It’s as if we’ve changed glasses—everything we see, we now see through new and different lenses.
In this context, the «center of gravity» represents what fundamentally anchors us at a given stage of life. As we grow, that center shifts, and new experiences, knowledge, and challenges reshape our identity.
Thankfully, these shifts are irreversible. They mark developmental milestones that lead to greater wisdom, maturity, and fulfillment—but only if we engage them actively and reflectively.
Shifts in center of gravity cost a lot—and give even more.
A change in state
By contrast, a change in state is more temporary.
It’s related to a shift in mood, emotion, or external circumstance. A state change might occur when we get a promotion, feel a rush of excitement after a personal success, or experience sadness due to an external event.
These changes tend to be short-lived and don’t alter our core identity—who we are.
State changes may influence how we feel or behave in the moment, but they do not fundamentally alter the center of gravity in our lives.
State changes are part of the ebb and flow of everyday life.
They may be triggered by external stimuli—a stressful event, a joyful celebration, or simply a bad day. But unlike gravitational shifts, state changes do not reflect deeper transformation. Once the triggering event or mood passes, we typically return to our usual patterns of thought and behavior.
Why this distinction matters today
In our increasingly complex world, it’s easy to confuse state changes with shifts in center of gravity.
Many mistake temporary emotional highs or lows for deep, life-changing transformations.
Failing to recognize the difference can lead to superficial approaches to personal growth and short-sighted decision-making.
Understanding the distinction helps us avoid chasing quick fixes or irrelevant corrections, believing they will lead to lasting fulfillment. Instead, it invites us to focus on the deeper, structural changes that truly reshape our lives in meaningful ways.
This awareness also helps us manage expectations—both in our relationships and in our own journey of growth and development, including work and personal life.
Shifts in center of gravity require patience, reflection, and a commitment to long-term growth.
State changes, by contrast, are more transient.
By staying mindful of where we are on this spectrum, we can navigate life’s opportunities and challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and purpose.
DREIESKIVA|Roald Kvam 
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