Adapting to change
Change Is Scary. Here’s How to Cope…
Change is an integral, unavoidable part of life. Every day, the smallest change influences our every decision and shapes our strategy to combat any challenges we’re facing. Human nature in general isn’t conducive to change and constantly chases and yearns for security and safety - a sense of homeostasis, if you will.
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Things like having a secure job, a good home and a family to fall back on are the bare necessities that allow us to feel peace of mind and calm, and because change is a reminder of impermanence, we feel threatened by anything that could potentially alter the current harmonious situation.
A singular disruption to our everyday lives can cause stress, anxiety and also trigger an adverse reaction such as anguish, depression or despair, releasing cortisol - a hormone known as the body’s in-built alarm system that’s responsible for triggering your “fight-or-flight” response. Regardless of how small or large the change is, being overcome by fear is a very natural reaction, however it’s not a natural response. With the right tools and techniques, one can adapt to and even embrace any change that may come our way. Here are a few things to bear in mind:
Adapt, adapt, adapt: It goes without saying that change is a constant of life, therefore, it is imperative to learn to adapt and acknowledge that you cannot escape change. Very often, this awareness will allow you to remain rational and calm every time there is a shift in the current paradigm.
Evaluate the change: Sit in down in a quiet space to think about what in specific will change now and what areas of your life will be impacted as to figure out your action and solutions. Doing this periodically will keep you more centered knowing you’ve actively faced it head on.
Factor it in: Making an adjustment to your plan of action by foreseeing or planning for any changes is a necessary evil. Our plans cannot be rigid and require some level of fluidity, therefore, it is wise to account for even the smallest anomalies so you’re not blindsided when things don’t go your way.
Change your perspective: Look at this disruption (or newness) as an opportunity rather than a threat. Think about what this change can teach you or how it can enable you to grow and push your boundaries on the trail that leads to success.
Seek inspiration: Read about individuals who overcame challenges and adapted to change to become the people they are today. Not only will reading ignite hope and give rise to wisdom - it will also give you a platform upon which to base your growth strategies.
Recruit a support group: Change can be scary and seem daunting especially when you’re alone. Having a group of friends or a mentor by your side will give you more confidence, allow you to share and organize your thoughts and provide a means for rational thinking.
Health is wealth: Your health should always be a priority - both physical and mental. Clock in eight hours of sleep and make time for exercise every day in addition to eating healthy to continually release those happy and calming hormones that will allow you the energy and head space to tackle the stress.
Be grateful: Gratitude is extremely underrated! Being grateful and appreciative of everything you have boosts serotonin and oxytocin levels and significantly alters your mood and behavior, which in turn contribute to positive thinking. A simple daily activity such as listing everything you’re thankful for can work wonders for your overall health - after all, you got to this point through change, so why not be grateful for all those successes and milestones you’ve achieved so far!