Change is inevitable. Dealing with change can make you feel many different emotions, like stressed, anxious, nervous, or even fearful to name just a few. I know that, personally, change can trigger my anxiety. However, I have found a few things that work with easing into the new “norm.” Here are 8 tips on dealing with change.

Nothing is so painful to the human mind as a great and sudden change.” -Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, Frankenstein

8 Tips On Dealing With Change

1. Acknowledge the change.

The first step to any problem is acknowledgment. You must acknowledge that a change will/has occurred. You can never move forward until you stop resisting the change. Trying to fight change or run and hide is only going to postpone the inevitable and make it more stressful for you.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I do believe that some change is worth fighting against, but I will talk more in detail about that later.

2. Think things through.

A large number of people despise change because they fear the unknown. A lot of times, the only way to deal with this is to face it head-on. However, I have found that giving myself a chance to think things through is a great way. What’s the worst that could happen? Give yourself a chance to think through some possible scenarios. Write down your fears and face the idea of them head-on. Making a plan for each scenario can help alleviate some of the stress.

Another great tip is to remember the last time you had to deal with a big change. It might be hard at first and it might take some time to get use to the new situation, but it will be ok. Just remind yourself of your ability to be strong.

3. Take note of what you can control.

It is imperative to take a moment and figure out just how much control you actually have over the new change. This allows you to put things into perspective. Do you have the control to make small changes or steps to make the change easier?

For example, maybe you have to change schools so what could you do to make this easier? You could agree to get together with your friends from your old school on a weekly basis or join a club.

4. Don’t stress the stress.

Your reaction to stress has a huge impact on your health and future successes. Try looking at stress differently. Instead of looking at stress as a way to make your life harder try looking at stress as a motivator to help you through a challenging time. It is all in how you look at it.

Find different ways to relax and handle your stress in a positive, healthy way.

• Physical Activity
• Better sleep
• Talk to a friend or professional
• Relaxation Techniques (for ideas click here)
• Learn to say no.
• Time management

5. Do some soul-searching: is it time to reject or accept the change?

This is a big one. Is the change something that you can fight against? Is fighting against the change the best thing for you or is acceptance? For example, if it is a change at work that is going to make completing your job more difficult than it might be worth discussing the change with your boss. However, if the new change sounds scary at first, but has the potential to make your job easier in the long run than maybe it is time to show some acceptance.

6. Celebrate the positives.

Choose to see and celebrate the positives. I know this can sound a lot easier than it is, but it really can help. The positives might not always be readily visible, but I promise it is worth taking the time to seek them out. Work on seeing change as an opportunity for greater success. Try to seek excitement, not fear. Look to the future.

7. Be flexible.

You must be flexible. The truth of the matter is that we are never free from change, that is not the nature of life. However, we are free to choose how we RESPOND to change. Be proud and confident in the fact you are in control of your emotions and how you handle change. Never expect stability.

8. Ask for help.

Remember, if the above tips don’t seem to help or your mental state just continues to get worse, it is ALWAYS OK TO ASK FOR HELP. Ask friends or family for emotional support, maybe just a shoulder to cry on. However, if this is still not enough it is not a sign of weakness to seek out professional help. Take care of yourself.

It’s only after you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow, and transform.” -Roy T. Bennett

In closing, just remember that change is a constant part of life. However, you can control how you react to the change. Choose to move forward and take it one day at a time.

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31