Change.
To change or not to change.
Change is inevitable. Change is hard. Sometimes we choose it and sometimes it is thrust upon us.
Change is different. It is the modification or alteration of a current state. The shakeup of an expectation. Like a smooth long black line that is interrupted by a big purple dot.
How do we interpret that purple dot? What about it makes it hard? If we know change is inevitable- shouldn’t we be better at managing it by now?
Our brains approach change in 2 ways: either as a threat (hello stress!) or a challenge (a welcome opportunity). Depending on how we invite it in will determine how big of an impact we are left with.
There are 2 interesting things to note here:
Our first reaction is just that- a reaction. We can’t help ourselves. But- how we respond is our choice. Even if we don’t want change, we have control and choice over how we respodn to it.
No matter how big or small the change may be (a new school, promotion, moving, loss of employment)- it always feels hard. Just a varying level of how hard. Context also plays a big role here. What else do you have on your plate at the time of this change?
I am not an expert on change. I am an expert on helping others manage change. My clients are going through changes everyday: mergers, acquisitions, promotions, laying people off, new hires, new management, new processes… everyday. Each of them struggle in their own way. They also each thrive in their own way. Because even when change is unexpected and hard- new opportunities arise. It’s the ability to stop in the moment and ask yourself: what is the purpose of this change? How can I make this change work in my favour? Who and what do I need to make this work for me? How can I support others?
When the next change shakes you up- ask yourself: how do I want to invite this in? How will I make this an opportunity?
If you look for the forward movement (the opp)- that’s exactly what you’ll see.
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