Change is always on the horizon. It’s necessary and inevitable. Often times, we
really want the change but then are confused by our own response to the reality
of it. It may be a change in your environment, career move or physical move.
Whatever the circumstance, change prompts a powerful response from your
emotions – often known as stress! Identifying
whether it’s positive or negative is really determined by your attitude.
Instead of trying to fight it or merely cope (all of which will leave you
frustrated, isolated and exhausted) try adjusting your mindset altogether!
Before you say, “Easier said than done!” ponder these
thoughts:
Ø Denial
is not a river in Egypt.
Acknowledge change is happening. Burying your head in the sand won’t stop it.
By the time you pull it out, you’ll be behind the curve or perhaps worse, have
missed the boat entirely. "When
you're finished changing, you're finished." It
may be an old adage, but damn if Ben Franklin isn’t right.
Ø
Think of change as a process. Change
usually doesn’t happen overnight, nor do you adjust overnight. There are many
steps which must be taken to get to the other side of the mountain.
Fortunately, all you have to do is focus on one step at a time.
Ø
Rise to the positive. If you choose
to perceive anything as positive, it can be! You will thrive in positivity.
Keeping your chin up will help you feel better and bring you closer to those
around you, which will probably help your transition.
Ø
Redefine routines and success. The
definition of success varies for every individual, every relationship and in
every career. It is likely that success in your last career doesn’t look the
same as your new one. In the beginning set short term goals & define
success on a daily basis. As you start to achieve this many days in a row,
define success on a weekly basis, then monthly. From here you will be able to
identify long term goals without getting overwhelmed at how much work it will
take to get there.
Ø
Have an attitude of gratitude. Change
is an opportunity. It opens a door that you couldn’t even see existed from
where you stood before! Find things to be excited about and look forward too.
Don’t forget to engage your support network. Communicating
is key during this time! Not tapping into support from a leader, mentor, family
or friends will only serve to help you feel more isolated. Remember the
positive!
The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on
fighting the old, but on building the new. - Socrates
Please contact a Practice Leader at Connor|Caitlin for more information.
