Change is inevitable, so how can we set ourselves up for success when change happens?

The ability to approach change with an open mind and the understanding that change is necessary for growth can bring a sense of acceptance to an uncomfortable situation. Much like the weather, each season of life brings a shift, and in this shift, we can take time to see

• what is working;

• what hasn’t worked,

• what we need to get working.

In the fall, we have harvests (working), we have the loss of leaves (no longer working), and we have prep for cooler weather (get working). When we approach life situations in a similar fashion, we can find patterns that help us to better understand how to rethink our approach to change.

Sometimes life hits us at different stages of our journey and we tend to get so lost in the goal of staying in motion that we may not take the time to make sure the motion is the most efficient or rewarding.

Sometimes new is scary and comfort can be a huge part of a decision. Although comfort is a valid reason in some situations, don’t sacrifice a better opportunity or process simply because the change is temporarily uncomfortable. Sitting with the discomfort is, in itself, a pathway to progress and practice a growth mindset.

How do you know if the change is uncomfortable or if the decision you made that resulted in the change has you uncomfortable? Rumors (and research) have noted it takes about six weeks to find your footing in something like a new job or a change to your typical operations. Research from Dr Phillipa Lally concludes that building new habits can vary in timeline and experts suggest this is impacted by factors such as interest, motivation, and expertise.

As with most things, find some comfort in the fact that there is no 100% RIGHT decision. Much of how we approach circumstances and choices in life is dictated by our ability to adapt and make the situation the best it can be. If you find yourself in a position you don’t want to be, review for options and start the process over. You may find it helpful to start that self-reflection with one or more of the following questions:

1. What’s working?

2. What has me stuck?

3. What do I know? (or conversely, what do I NOT know?)

4. What are the potential outcomes? And what is the most likely of these?

5. What do I need to stay present in this moment?

6. What is 1 thing I can do to move forward?