“We must look at change as
possibility, a chance to be more successful.”
Rick Pitino
Change is inevitable in our world
today. From changes in technology to changes in the workplace, our communities,
schools, and even our homes, things are constantly evolving. Change can be
difficult to deal with, but it can also present wonderful opportunities and
experiences to learn and grow as a person. So, how do you react to change? Do
you shun it or embrace it? Or are you somewhere in-between? Making change work
for you rather than against you is an important characteristic of a good
leader, and it can help you have a more rewarding and successful life.
Often, we can be scared of change,
because in most instances, we cannot control it. This lack of control and
uncertainty over the effects of change can be distressing. However, it can also
be exhilarating and motivating, and it can cause deep reflection,
self-evaluation and ultimately excellence. Viewing change as an opportunity to
learn and experience new things will help you through it. I like to image change as a challenge and a
springboard to success rather than a hindrance and a roadblock. The following
are four basic ideas to help you not only cope but conquer change in your
world.
1. Be Flexible and Prepared
To deal with change effectively, you
must be prepared and be flexible. You must accept that things in this world are
constantly changing, especially in our modern times. You also must understand
things won’t always be the way they are right now, so you will need to learn to
adapt and do things differently when the time comes. Remember, life is full of
unexpected surprises, and how we choose to react to them will define us as a
person. Additionally, it is impossible to shelter ourselves from change,
because change is inevitable. So, be prepared, flexible, and willing to deal
with change as it comes.
2. Be Positive
When dealing with a difficult
change, try to remain positive. Though this can be tricky, look for ways the
change may help you. Search for lessons you can learn from the change, and try
to discover the meaning behind the change. Also, change often is good in the
long run even though in the present it may seem anything but good. Remember,
though the uncertainty change produces is unsettling, it can help shape you and
drive you to become a better person. Having a positive attitude will greatly
enhance your ability to deal with change effectively.
3. Be Confident
It is important to be confident with
change. Often we fear change, because we are afraid that somehow we will be
less successful or less capable because of the change. It is important to be
confident that regardless of any type of change, you can be successful. And if you examine things closely, the truth
is, you’ve successfully dealt with change your whole life. At times it may take significant effort, but
have the confidence and determination that if you’ve been successful before the
change, you can surely be successful after it.
4. Live a Purpose Driven Life
Try to have a purpose in life that
defines you as a person. Be true to yourself. This will help you deal with
change, because it can provide a constant anchor amidst these tumultuous times
of change. Being firm in who you are and what you believe in will help build
your confidence, and it will give you something that is firm and
solid--something that can only be changed by you. Living a purpose driven life
will effectively help you in dealing with change.
Learning the power that lies in
being able to change is essential in our world today. Many leaders fail because
of their inability to accept and adapt to change. Don’t let change ruin who you
are, what you feel, or how you view the world. As you learn to accept and
embrace change, you will become a more effective leader, and you will be ready
to have success in this very dynamic world we live in. It’s exciting!! So start
developing your ability to deal with change effectively today!
