Whether welcome or not, navigating change takes skill. Unexpected change can catch us off guard forcing us to deal with situations that were unplanned. Anticipated changes, though purposeful, still require shifts in mindset and habits. Learning to become more comfortable with change is possible and these tips will help.

Tip: Practice ‘mental agility’– Mental agility, or psychological flexibility, is the ability to adapt during change. Rather than seeing things as black and white, imagine them through a lens of flexibility where many possibilities exist. Look at change in the same way you would a game of strategy. If you play pool, once the game begins there are numerous shots available to take. Being flexible with the ever-changing game makes it possible to be strategic and use your options in a variety of ways. Being open to a variety of outcomes makes accepting change easier.

Tip: Use your worries to your advantage- People who strive for security tend to overthink and worry about change. The hyper focus can lead to activities like making lists, overpreparing, and double checking. Change can be unpredictable, but these activities can be useful to ease worries and alleviate stress. Be productive with your worry and use it to your advantage.  

Tip: Practice shifting your mindset: Perspective is everything. How you perceive things triggers how you react to them. If you tend to be easily annoyed by inconveniences or intolerant when things don’t go your way, shifting your mindset will help. Be intentional about finding the good in a situation or how to get the most out of an undesirable circumstance. Starting with small things will easily build your tolerance for change and you’ll be more prepared for bigger changes on the horizon. 

Tip: Understand the ‘in between’: There is a space of time between a change and the new normal. This in between time is a transition from what was to what will be. Whether an unexpected change like a layoff, end of a relationship, or great loss, or a planned change like shift in career, marriage, or having children, there is a transition period where things play out. Use this time to slow down and adjust as things change. Don’t require too much of yourself and allow yourself time to adapt and recalibrate as things change.

Tip: Remember who you are: Often times change impacts our identity. Shifting from single to married, child-free to parenting, career-minded to retired, and other changes can shake up how we see ourselves. Give yourself time to adjust to the ‘new you’ and don’t rush yourself to say goodbye to the old and embrace the new. Allow yourself time to grieve any sense of loss while also getting excited about what’s evolving.