Whether we want to admit it or not, the idea of change brings a sense of fear of the unknown that no one is ever truly ready for. When I think about all the change that has happened in my life in the past couple months, I’m shocked at how well I handled it. I will be the first one to admit I am not good with change and I think it stems from this innate fear of failure through transformation. Yet when I think back to a couple months ago, the amount of growth I have experienced is incredibly evident and I couldn’t imagine going back. While during the midst of the change I was hesitant to stay positive, I think this was a good wake up call for me and probably many others that whether we like it or not, change is going to happen. Rather than allowing it to put a negative taste in our mouth, we should choose to see it as a motivator. I think motivation can be broken down into three viewpoints:
Evolve and Resolve. In order to progress as the world around us does, we have to understand the importance of staying with the times. I’m not asking you to jump on the social media bandwagon or give your kids an iPad starting at the age of six, but rather understand that as each new generation emerges into the working world, they bring a new finesse that is unlike anyone before. While it may be easy to view that change in a negative light, I encourage you to resolve those discouraging thoughts and replace them with an open mind that is driven by the opportunity to ask questions and understand not only why the change has to occur, but ways in which you can contribute to it.
Trust to transform. The need to trust in the unknown is a major factor in how we react to change. While that may be much easier said than done, I can’t stress this enough! Maintaining trust during constant change gives you the chance to sit in the driver’s seat of that transformation and direct it on a path you not only feel comfortable in, but also thrive in. I know for some, trust isn’t what comes to mind when encountering change but I definitely think it’s important to make a conscious effort towards transformation no matter how big or how small. Whether it is as simple as a change in responsibilities or a complete change in environment, remembering to have faith in the progress will make a much easier transition.
Fear doesn’t equal failure. While change can sometimes feel like a form of forced growth, it’s important to dwell on the positive behind it rather than the fear. I think fear is too commonly associated with failure and ends up dictating our action, or lack of, because of it. The advice that I need to personally take, as well as want to give to you, is to not let the fear of the unknown limit the possibilities that change and growth can bring. Use that fear as a motivator to look past the bad and strive to achieve the good. While fear will be present throughout any form of change or progression, remember that it is not a disabler in your success.
While each of these viewpoints highlight a different way of viewing and responding to change, I think it is ultimately up to you how you process change. We all experience the good, the bad, and the ugly of change but it’s important to stress the good above all else. Change brings growth to help us become better versions of ourselves. Going into it with an open mind really will make all the difference. While we all will have those days where the idea of change brings anything put positivity and reinforcement, it’s important to remember that growth occurs in that inevitable change and we should use it as a motivator towards bigger and better things of the future.
Allie Lang is a Student Outreach Coordinator for Aureus Medical Group.