Change, unlike transition, is about a particular moment or a big milestone in your life.
A moment could consist of a new manager at work, a professor changing classrooms for their lectures, or your favourite coffee flavour being discontinued.
A big milestone could be along the lines of a death in the family, getting married, having a child or changing careers.
Everyone reacts so differently when it comes to change. Change may exude feelings of excitement and exhilaration. It can also be frustrating, threatening, or frightening.
Interestingly, some people may feel as though change is happening – to them, versus happening – for them. Some may even feel as though the change is a sign of disloyalty.
Change can be particularly stressful because it triggers our primal instinct which is about safety and survival. This may cause us to feel fearful about our own ability to adapt.
However, our ability to grow both personally and professionally is tied directly to change.
“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional”
-John Maxwell
The words spoken above are so well said. The reality is, there is change and evolution all around us, everywhere. The sooner we can develop the courage accompanied by the needed coping skills, the easier it will be to thrive in an ever-shifting world.
We need to learn to navigate through it. Although change may be difficult, it often represents an opportunity to display valued skills like adaptability, flexibility, and resourcefulness. It can also end up teaching us news skills that we did not know we had or were capable of. We may pleasantly surprise ourselves.
So, what do we need to do to achieve the best outcome for ourselves during a time of change?
“If you can’t change it, change your attitude towards it”
-Maya Angelou
Our mind is our source of POWER! It can play tricks on us, and it can also move us to action.
Many times, we need to consider altering our previous beliefs which may be holding us back.
False beliefs of unworthiness, guilt, and fear. It could even mean letting go of generational curses that we need to disconnect with.
Navigating change effectively is key to personal growth and resilience. While organizational change management often gets the spotlight, personal change management is just as crucial for achieving individual goals and maintaining well-being. Here’s a roadmap to guide you through managing change at a personal level.
Acknowledge and Accept Change
The first step in managing change is to acknowledge its presence. Denial or resistance can lead to prolonged stress and missed opportunities. Accepting that change is inevitable allows you to shift your mindset from one of fear to one of curiosity. Reflect on the potential benefits and challenges the change might bring and recognize that discomfort is often a natural part of the process.
It is also often through the removal of our comfort zones, that we learn more about ourselves and grow more meaningfully- mentally, emotionally and sometimes physically.
Define Your Goals and develop a plan
The world around us does not stop for anyone. Change will come over and over again, so clarify what you want to achieve during this period of change. Having a clear vision provides direction and helps you stay focused when uncertainties arise. Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps. A house is built by laying one brick at a time. Therefore, to avoid feeling overwhelmed, do not think of the end result which can be a HUGE thought. Just think of the next small step you need to take to get closer to your goal or to the situation in front of you.
Build a Support System
Change can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Share your journey with friends, family, or mentors who can offer encouragement and advice. Join communities or groups that align with your goals. A robust support system not only provides emotional backing but also keeps you accountable.
Cultivate Resilience
Resilience is your ability to bounce back from setbacks. Developing resilience involves practicing self-care, maintaining a positive outlook, and learning from failures. Techniques like mindfulness, journaling, and regular exercise can enhance your mental and emotional strength. Remember, setbacks are not roadblocks; they’re opportunities to reassess and refine your approach.
All successful people have failed more than they wish they had. In failure, you find lessons which create wisdom. Through failure, you can rise into the best version of yourself.
Monitor Your Progress
Regularly assess how far you’ve come. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep yourself motivated. Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t and be willing to adjust your plan as needed. Tracking progress not only boosts confidence but also reinforces your commitment to the change.
Practice Gratitude
Amid change, it’s easy to focus on what you’ve lost rather than what you’ve gained. Practicing gratitude can shift your perspective and help you appreciate the positives aspects in your life. Consider keeping a gratitude journal or setting aside time each day to pray and reflect on the things you’re thankful for.
Be Patient with Yourself
Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey that requires time, effort, and self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and remember that progress is more important than perfection. Celebrate your efforts, learn from your experiences, and trust in yourself.
Conclusion
Managing change on a personal level is a skill that can be cultivated with practice and intention. By approaching change with an open mind and a proactive attitude, you can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, is a testament to your resilience and determination. Embrace change, and let it propel you toward a more fulfilling and dynamic life.
-Leslie Carrafiello
