Six tips to prepare for change
- CharlotteLittlejones
- Nov 28, 2024
- 4 min read
Change is the only constant in life, whether in careers, organisational change programmes, or technological advancements.
Sometimes we choose change, and sometimes it happens to us.
As a professional coach, I've observed 'change' in various forms.
Embracing change unlocks new opportunities and leads to significant personal and professional growth.
Yet some fear change and stepping into the unknown. Even if people want things to change, many like the security of what is familiar.
Why do we all respond differently to change?
There are many reasons why people cope with change in different ways.
Throughout my childhood we moved a lot, meaning changing environments, changing schools, making new friends, which at the time I didn't welcome. But in my career, I have been energised by a frequent change of roles, changing sectors, and changing geographical location.
My appetite for change remains quite high, some with be down to conditioning, but there also other factors to take into account:
Personality traits
Different personalities react to change in unique ways:
Resilient individuals: Tend to handle change well and bounce back quickly.
Anxious individuals: May find change more challenging and need more time to adjust.
Past experiences
People's past experiences with change can shape how they handle new changes.
Positive experiences: Individuals who have had positive experiences may embrace it more easily.
Negative experiences: Particularly in relation to organisational change, in organisations where they have gone through multiple change programmes, employees often feel change fatigue. People dread the 'what this time?' Those who have faced difficulties related to change might be more resistant.
Flexibility and open-mindedness
Some individuals are naturally more flexible and open-minded, which helps them adapt to change:
Flexible individuals: Tend to embrace change and see it as an opportunity.
Rigid people: May find it harder to adapt and may resist change.
Support systems
The presence or absence of a support system can influence how someone copes with change:
Strong support network: Having a strong team, or a good network of colleagues, friends, or family, to lean on can make transitions smoother.
Lack of support: Those without a solid support system may struggle more with change.
Coping mechanisms
People develop different coping mechanisms to deal with stress and change:
Healthy coping: Strategies such as exercising, meditating, or seeking support can help manage change effectively.
Unhealthy coping: Avoidance, denial, or negative behaviours can hinder the ability to cope with change.
If you are leading a team through change, or know someone who is going through significant change, it is advisable to check on how they are feeling and how they are spending their time, both in and out of work.
Cultural and societal influences
Cultural background and societal norms can also play a role. The culture of an organisation can impact how their employees feel about change. This can even be visible in certain sectors which have experienced long times of stability:
Cultures that value stability: May promote resistance to change. A more traditional sector may have done things the same way for years.
Cultures that embrace change: Are more likely to encourage adaptability and innovation.
Understanding and embracing these differences can help support yourself and others through change.
As a coach, I am in the privileged position of guiding people to find the most effective ways to adapt and thrive in the face of change. 🌟
Why embracing change is important
Adaptability: Embracing change makes you more adaptable and resilient. It prepares you to face new challenges with a positive mindset and find creative solutions to problems.
Growth mindset: Change encourages a growth mindset. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, enabling you to learn new skills, gain new experiences, and expand your horizons.
Innovation: Change fosters innovation. It forces you to think outside the box, explore new ideas, and drive progress in your field.
Opportunities: Embracing change opens doors to new opportunities. It can lead to career advancements, new relationships, and personal achievements you never thought possible.
Tips for embracing change
CONTROL - Identify what you can control and what is beyond your control. Determine what choices or controls you have within this change and understand the broader context. Consider what it will mean for you and for others. By clearly evaluating the entire situation, you are more likely to recognize the potential benefits instead of the drawbacks.
HEALTHY HABITS - Experiencing change can be stressful, so taking care of your physical and mental health increases your chances of staying resilient. Strategies like exercising, meditating, or seeking support can aid in managing change effectively.
ACCEPT - When change is unavoidable, acknowledging it early allows you to prepare yourself more effectively. This acceptance opens you up to new ideas and perspectives, facilitating a smoother and more enriching transition.
NAVIGATE - How will you manage the change? What steps can you take to plan and prepare in order to minimize disruption for yourself? If you've encountered change in the past, consider using your previous experiences.
GUIDANCE - If the change is causing you stress or you simply want some advice, reach out to professionals or trusted friends and family for guidance and support.
EMBRACE the change and look for opportunities, that way, you'll be more likely to have a positive outcome.
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