Why Not?
December 2012
Unbelievably, it is nearing the close of another year. December often gives time to reflect on all the changes of the previous year, and brings the feelings of excitement and nervousness for the new year. Think about all the changes that have occurred since December of 2011. Think of how much will change when we get to December of 2013. Whether professionally or personally, we consciously or unconsciously are deeply impacted by major life changes. A new baby. A new job. A new role. Pretending that we can sail through change without being affected is a bit naive, and can actually end up putting more stress on ourselves and those around us. Recognizing how we adapt to change, and how to prepare for change can help us go through these transitions with grace and transform us into better versions of ourselves. And if not, keep asking yourself "why not?"
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Sincerely,
Belinda Chiu, Ed.D.
Consider your workmates and how they handle change - do they need the facts or do they want someone to talk to? Understanding their needs can help you become a more effective manager when guiding through a team during major change. Providing information in a way that "speaks their language" can help your staff understand the reasons for the change and adapt more successfully to the transitions.
Change is one of the only constants in life.
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Dealing with Change
Change - good or bad - affect us deeper than we often recognize.
There is one constant in life, and that is change. Whether the change is a positive one (i.e. job promotion) or a not-so-positive one (i.e. job loss), major shifts in our life are major sources of stress. Initial feelings of elation may turn quickly into feelings of anxiety. Initial feelings of shock may turn quickly into feelings of depression. Knowing that with change comes strong emotional triggers, we must prepare to mitigate the associated stresses.
Studies have shown that people who have a diverse range of tools at their disposal to handle stress can move through times of significant change with greater ease and comfort, which not only impacts job performance, but emotional and physical health.
New baby? Talk about change...
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Find a support system
Don't try and go at everything alone. An objective perspective can help talk you off the ledge.
Remember your strengths
With change, we all go through - however fleeting - a moment where our confidence is shaken, and we wonder if we are equipped to handle the "new norm." You are. Identify and draw on your skills and strengths to help you get over the hurdle.
Exercise
Whether it's a walk or yoga or a run, physical exercise has been proven to get those endorphins going. Not to mention that physical wellbeing can help boost self-esteem and self-confidence.
Change perspectives
Easier said than done, but in moments where change seems overwhelming, it is helpful to look at the change from a longer-term perspective. By placing it in context, it is easier - and more believable - to see that the feelings of anxiety and stress will pass as the change becomes more familiar.
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Handling Change
We all handle change differently - there is no one better or worse way.
By asking yourself - and of others - these questions, you may better understand your own natural preferences for handling change. Greater awareness can help others "get you" during the more uncertain times and also help you better understand others to avoid frustration and misunderstading.
1. Do you/they need time to think on your own before adjusting to the change or do you like to jump in and be the first to adopt the change?
2. Do you need the evidence to support the change first or do you prefer to try the change first and get the details later?
3. Do you need to relate the change to your situation or do you prefer to look at it in a broader context?
4. Do you want time to adopt to the change on your pace or do you want the excitement of constant change?
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