Adapting to change

They say the only thing that is constant is change. Which is most unfortunate since most of us don't like change. We'd rather remain stagnant in our little pool of mediocrity than to step out into an unknown ocean, with its endless possibilities, because although we might sail beautifully, there's also the chance we could sink.

Change is all around us, some good and some less than ideal. Maybe your department at work has been merged with another department as a result of downsizing and you've lost seniority. Now you have a different boss and a larger workload. Or maybe they've created several teams within each department, and you're now a team leader--not a manager, just a team leader. This is a real challenge because you have more responsibility,  more accountability, but zero authority. If you can prove yourself, you might receive a promotion in a year. If you fail, you face possible layoff.

So how do we learn to embrace change? First, we must face the fact that the change is occurring, whether we get on board with it or not. Remembering that the quickest way to our destination is the path of least resistance; it makes sense that the less we resist a change, the easier it will be.

Second, let's take a mental inventory. Yes, things are changing--but how are you truly affected? Make a list of all the things that are changing, then let's go back and categorize those things to pros and cons. Now, let's look at the cons and see if there are ways to turn them into pros. Are you worried about having a new boss because your old boss let you take a long, late, lunch on Tuesdays to pick your daughter up from school because your mother, who usually takes care of her, has physical therapy that day? Well, nip it in the bud, ask your new boss if you can continue to have this small concession in your schedule and assure her you always make up the time and get your work done. Chances are it won't be a problem, but if it is, it's better to find out as early as possible so you have time to find an alternative solution. Maybe a neighbor or another parent at school could give her a ride? Maybe you find an Über or private transport service that can do regular pick-ups. There are ALWAYS options out there for any caveat, you just have to get creative and think outside the box.

Finally, let's try to see the positives in the situation. Using the example above, perhaps you've had some ideas of how you can stay more organized. Or you may even have ideas of how to improve the processes in your office, increase profits or lower costs that you just haven't had an opportunity to put it in place. As a team leader this could be your chance. Go talk to your boss and run your ideas past her and ask if you could try them within your team. The worst she can do is say "no", but even if she does, that's only one opportunity.  How you handle yourself might show how you deal with setbacks. This could prove to be a stepping stone toward advancement down the line. For now, you just continue to do your best and wait for another opportunity to present itself.

Is the change you're faced with less significant than that? Consider yourself lucky!  Maybe you're being forced to give up your office in favor of a cubicle "to increase efficiency". There are still little things you can do to change your outlook on a situation that's out of your control. Take some time to clean up your desk, buy yourself some new colorful pencil cups, file stackers, staplers, and a pillow to put in your chair to suport your back. Bring in new pictures of your kids, tape affirmations all around your cubicle. Make your space (the one thing that is still in your control) yours again. Take ownership of it. Remind yourself that your job need not define you. It's what you do in order to have the life you want with your family, your friends, and your sanctuary after 5:00.

This process applies to nearly any situation; divorce, unemployment, illness, empty nest, financial hardships and more. Accept the change, take your inventory, decide what you can control and go for it, let go of what you can't, but find ways to change your perspective and remember what's really important. Change is all around us, it's inevitable, but we are in control of ourselves. We can make the choice to not be a victim of circumstance, but to accept the challenge fate has dealt us, and rise from the ashes like a phoenix.

Brightest Blessings,

Jenifer

I'd love to know how you've handled a big change in your life.

Do you have a question or a problem you need help with?

Fill out the contact me page or comment down below. Like me and share.