One thing that you can count on is change. It comes whether you want it or not, whether you are ready or not. Its a fight we can’t win. Its unavoidable and it is continual. One of the ways to at least mitigate the negative feelings that are sometimes associated with change is to embrace it!
When we try to fight change, it can feel like we’re trying to hold back the tide. One thing we have to remember is that in the long run, most change is positive. Change is hard because we are hard wired to do the same thing over and over. According to Huff Post, there are a number of reasons that change is most definitely positive and fundamentally shapes us into the people we become and it has everything to do with attitude.
Change usually results in growth, both personal and organizational. It is a fact of life that in today’s business climate companies, especially small -businesses, are implementing changes at an unprecedented rate. The good news is that small companies adapt to changes much easier than large companies. Small businesses are much more nimble and lean because they have to be.
Here are 5 ways that you can learn to adapt to change:
1. Acknowledge that Change is Inevitable and that Embracing Change Helps Us Grow
“Because we repel change, we sometimes go through life without ever living up to our full potential or allowing ourselves to express who we really are. Change is an inevitable part of life and no matter how happy we are with how things are currently, life will always change.” – Rhett Power, Head Coach at Inc.
2. Look At your Life and Find The Negative
Human nature is to gravitate to the positive. Sometimes we are more accepting of change if it is helping us get rid of negative habits or people. The sooner we become aware that change is ahead and are open to accepting it, the better off we will be. Be persistent in the way you analyze your life. What are the positives? What are the negatives? Are there things you know are not useful in your life but you are holding on to them anyway? Be willing to give up what’s comfortable for something more beneficial.
3. Make The Changes While You Can, Before Circumstances Force Your Hand
It is much easier to make changes of our own free will and choice than to have to make them because the circumstances make us. A favorite quote of mine is “Attitude determines Altitude.” When you are the one that initiates change in your own life, it fundamentally changes the way we perceive that change. There are endless possibilities out there. Find the ones that best suit you and your situation. The world isn’t nearly as scary as some might think…it is still filled will lots of opportunities and things that will enhance your life BUT you have to be willing to go exploring to find them. Remember my quote about Attitude? Often that attitude is affected by your willingness and ability to embrace change. If change happens to you rather than you channeling it and molding it to your benefit, you are much more likely to feel like you are being dragged through life rather than feeling like you are in control of your own destiny.
4. Everyone Has Doubt, Fear and Uncertainty
If you think you are the only one who doubts what is next or fears what is around the next corner, think again. You are not alone! I recently read an article titled “The Only Person You Should Try To Please Is Your 80 Year Old Self…” The author commented “whenever I imagine my 80 year old self asking himself what would life have been like if I did this or that, I just do it. And I try everything I can to make it work. No matter the consequences. No matter if I fail at it or succeed at it.” I love that attitude. So often we let fear of failure or uncertainty about outcome dictate our path about some of the most important decisions of our lives. Be bold! I referenced a favorite quote in a previous post, “The Best Advice You Can Hear About Employees.” After 10,000 “failures” Thomas Edison said “I did not fail! I just found 10,000 ways that did not work.” How we choose to look at things can directly affect the level of bravery we have moving forward through life.
Undoubtedly, there will be times when those negative thoughts that “you can’t do it” or “its just too hard” pop into your head. You just need to learn to move forward anyway, regardless of whether those thoughts are there or not.
5. Self-Abasement Is Counterproductive
Feeling sorry for yourself leads you to a very negative place. It is counterproductive to change and will most certainly halt (or at least slow to a crawl) your forward progress. Never blame your environment or circumstances. It is what it is, so move past it and get on with life. Stay focused on setting your sights high and visualize where you want to be. As you remain focused, you will find that embracing the changes that come your way will not only become easier, they will become your friends! Change is renewal and growth.
Another favorite quote is “When You Are Green, You Grow. When You Are Ripe, You Rot.” I love the visualization. Remember, life is a journey and if we are constantly obsessing about the destination, we are going to miss all of the interesting parts of the trip. No one gets through life without bumps and bruises. Accept this for what it is and enjoy the ride despite the occasional painful experience. If you do, you will see that life is a miracle and every moment should be cherished.