We all know the one thing we can count on in life: change. It is always going to happen sooner or later. Whether it’s unexpected or sought out, it’s usually stressful and even sometimes outright feared. In recent years, change seems to have run amok in many aspects of our lives from social to political. There’s even a term from the 1970’s that has come back into fashion to describe the kind of shock to the system that can throw humans off their life plans when unexpected change occurs: “lifequake”. Lifequake describes the upheaval and destruction of personal lives in the same way an earthquake conveys the destruction of buildings and landscapes. So, what do we do to try and prevent a full on “lifequake”? In short – we learn how to embrace change.
Embracing change involves understanding why people resist it, the role of one’s mindset, how to handle fear, and the importance of stress management/self-care. Resistance to change often stems from a desire to stay within one’s comfort zone. People fear the unknown and hold on to familiar routines, which creates a sense of safety. Anxiety and uncertainty make it difficult to adopt new behaviors or accept novel situations. Resistance is not merely stubbornness; it is a protective mechanism. Being aware of these emotions as well as personal patterns helps in recognizing why change is challenging. This awareness also highlights areas for personal growth that can come from dealing with change and growing a mindset that is resilient.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when preparing to confront changes in our daily lives.:
- The unknown often leads to increased anxiety and fear. Building courage involves facing fears head-on, even when outcomes are uncertain. Cultivating self-awareness and mindfulness can help manage these emotions.
- Under stress, our familiar habitual reactions (or patterns) kick in – it’s part of our survival instinct to protect ourselves when things get difficult. It’s a natural reaction to either want to work against change (even when we have planned it), or rush into it in order to reach our new “normal.” Your pattern(s) may help you cope in small ways, but left unchecked or unchanged, habits can be maladaptive and typically add to the stress. Naming your own pattern, recognizing it as a habit, and evaluating whether it is helpful or harmful slows down the possible fallout when dealing with new situations.
- Despite change’s chaotic and unpredictable nature, we do have choices. If we take the first step of recognizing our habits when they arise, we are presented with a choice in how we respond to change. (We can use this reminder as motivation to choose how to respond.)
- Change management is crucial for smooth transitions. An effective action plan should include: clear communication, setting realistic goals, and involving all stakeholders.
- Stress can start leading your decisions in the midst of unpredicted change(s). Focus on small, manageable routines or habits that you do want to keep – and keep doing them amidst the change.
Finally, managing stress is vital when dealing with change. Regular breaks, physical activity, and hobbies can help reduce stress levels. Practicing mindfulness, ensuring proper rest, and maintaining a work-life balance are essential self-care strategies. Additionally, addressing mental health needs through relaxation techniques and reaching out to seek support when needed can also help create a more resilient mindset toward change.