To many people, the idea of change sounds threatening and even hearing about any impending changes is frightening to them, even if the imminent changes would be beneficial and would update and modernize structures, technology and processes, providing efficiencies and streamlining processes. Everyone depicts a different reaction and accepts it in a different manner. Any change, be it positive or negative, or even personal or professional involves a certain amount of stress as the innate fear of the unknown plays on our minds.
However we need to accept the reality, that in today’s competitive world, companies need to continuously be on their toes, adapt and innovate, in order to survive. To do so they need employees who can also be innovative, creative, ready to accept challenges and adapt to the required changes quickly. So, finding ways to adapt and accept the changes are the key to our success.
Remember, that some things are beyond our control, and change is one of them. However what we can have power over is our reactions and adaption to change. We can also manage how we can transition from an era which is ending to a new era which is beginning. But our perception of the coming changes has an impact on our transition and acceptance. If we believe that the change will have a positive impact and will represent opportunities for us we will welcome it and also adjust to it quickly. If, on the other hand we perceive the change as negative and an impending threat we will resist it and our transition will be slow and difficult.
It will not be possible to avoid changes taking place in the workplace. Making the situation less testing for us and easing the process of conversion would be helpful for our own future. Some tips to do so are given below :
- GATHER INFORMATION – It is very important to be informed about the imminent changes and what impact those may have on the organization and u. Being informed will help you to get a better understanding and what actions may be open and appropriate for you to take regarding it. Some actions may include speaking to your manager or even discussing it with other colleagues who may be better informed and who could guide you. Always remember that perspectives may differ according to each persons particular situation and their own knowledge and skill set.
- KEEP AN OPEN MIND – Be ready to explore the details of any impending change with an open mind. Changes may cause stress and added workload initially, but may have some great long term advantages for you and the company. So try to identify and then focus on those things which may be of benefit to you. Also explore what additional skills you may require and start to work on and develop those.
- HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE – An optimistic outlook towards life and your work will always help you in a change situation. Being positive will support a state of mind that does not dwell on the negative aspects of a change and the difficulties which may arise. Instead, positivity encourages one to expect good things to happen. Positive people view life with a constructive look and face challenges with confidence.
- FOCUS ON PERFORMANCE – Working on impending changes and implementing them take a lot of time and effort. During this period it is critical to focus on two things – firstly ensuring that the required changes are being worked on as per schedule and secondly, ensuring that ones daily performance is also up to the mark. It is important to ensure that productivity and efficiency do not slip.
- BE FLEXIBLE – Going with the flow and being flexible in our thinking is a very necessary skill for dealing with life’s changes. Whether it is starting a new role or accepting impending changes being flexible and accepting the changes helps us to adapt, grow and adjust to the changes. Accepting changes and the challenges which may come with it will make it more likely to reach your professional goals.
- STRESS MANAGEMENT – This is also a key element to managing change in our lives. Being stressed keads to an inability to cope with a situation, therefore being able to cope with stress leads to a successful handling of any matter. The most healthy ways to manage stress is to be engaged in a physical activity, doing meditation or yoga, reading a book or listening to your favourite music, Being relaxed helps to understand and manage a situation in a better manner.
Finally, remember that nothing stays the same. Circumstances could change again soon, making you wish you hadn’t wasted energy getting upset about the original change. If you’re able to maintain a good attitude, you’ll keep your options open and be ready to accept what is coming. You might even find unanticipated benefits, which motivate you and add to your future success.