Don’t Fear Change, Embrace It!

Change can be a very overwhelming thing to think about which is why many of us can find ourselves trying to avoid it from time to time. Now, we’re not talking about changing up your coffee creamer or adding highlights to your hair, we’re thinking more along the lines of changing career fields, moving to a new state, or deciding to end a long term relationship. These types of changes are the ones that make our heart race and sweat a little bit when we think too much about them. 

The reality is, change is necessary in order to become the best versions of ourselves. Without change, we have the potential to become complacent in life and just settle for how far we’ve gotten. Forcing ourselves into change may be a terrifying thought but it also makes us stronger, more confident, and more independent (and who doesn’t want those things?!). 

All of that being said, not fearing change and actually embracing it are two completely different things. Good news is, we’re here to help you navigate both! First, let’s dive into three helpful ways to stop fearing change.

1. Do Your Research – It’s completely normal to fear the unknown which is why so many people fear change because how can you jump wholeheartedly into something you know nothing about? The short answer is; do your research! Thinking about changing career fields? Talk to someone who already works in the industry. Are they happy? How long have they been doing it? Do they see themselves staying in it long term? Getting answers to your most worrisome questions will put you at ease with making the decision.
2. Eliminate Added Pressures – Have your in-laws been pressuring you and your spouse to move closer to them now that they’re getting older? Well, no offense to your in-laws but, don’t worry about them! If you are debating on making a change, the only people you should worry about are those directly involved. Relieve yourself of added stress brought on by other people’s thoughts and opinions and whittle it down to what will be best for you.
3. Start Small – No one decides to run a marathon and signs up for the next available race. They make a long term plan and small goals to achieve along the way. Maybe starting with training for a 5k, then a half marathon, and then finally building their way up to a marathon. To make a change, apply the same tactic! Let’s say you’re wanting to move across the country, first make a list of all the things you’ll need to do (find a place to live, schedule movers, sell your house, etc.) and then make a schedule for when you’d like to accomplish each one. Before you know it, you’re moving!

We’re halfway there! You now know the tools to not be afraid of change, the next step is to learn how to actually embrace change and invite it into your life. Let’s jump right in…

1. Remember It’s Normal And Inevitable – No matter what, at some point in our lives things change. Whether it’s graduating high school and going to college, moving out of our childhood home, getting married or anything in between, they are all normal changes in life. So, if it’s normal and inevitable, why not do it now? 
2. Know That You Are In Control – Just because things are changing, that does not take away the power you have in your own life. Remember that. At any point in time you have the power to make the next step. So long as you remain confident in that fact, there is no reason not to embrace it!
3. Celebrate Little Wins – Change isn’t a one and done thing. Usually with every big change comes many little changes and it’s important to celebrate how far you’ve come. When you feel rewarded for each and every effort you make toward the larger change, you’ll naturally feel more inclined to embrace the next one.