There’s little that a creature of habit hates more than change. We eat at the same restaurants, order the same food on the menu, hang out with the same people, and stay at a comfortable job. But, no matter how much we want to avoid it, change is part and parcel of living. Here are a few ways for creatures of habit to navigate ever-shifting waters:
1. Figure Out What You Can and Can’t Control
When something’s changing, you need to determine how much control you have over the situation. For example, being moved to a different department is not your choice, but the quality of your work is still something you can control.
Being able to identify what you can and can’t control allows you to manage your stress better. You’ll be able to stop wasting energy worrying about things you can’t possibly change anyway. This leaves you with more power to change what you can.
2. Accept and Change Your Perspective
So what do you do about the things you can’t change? You accept them. This isn’t an admittance of defeat; rather, it’s a gesture of bravery. There is strength in knowing when something just isn’t for you and letting it go.
Once you’ve accepted your situation, you can change your perspective about it. For example, you had to resign from your job. Instead of seeing it as a setback in your life, you can reframe it as an opportunity to pursue a new career or a better opportunity.
3. Take Action
After accepting the things you can’t control, you should focus your attention on things you can change. Use problem-solving techniques to accomplish your goals. Developing plans of action lessens uncertainties in new situations. Additionally, be proactive so you can prevent problems you’re anticipating in new situations.
4. Seek Support
Having a strong support system is essential to thrive in any environment. Talk out your fears and apprehensions with family and friends. Just airing out your feelings can be a great way to ease your tensions. Your loved ones can also offer you advice if they’ve dealt with situations similar to yours.
5. Find a Relaxing Activity
A relaxing activity will help lessen your anxiety about change. Running or working out reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, and it releases endorphins to flood your system with good vibes.
Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises also lessen anxiety and stress. Simply taking a few minutes to breathe in and out and clear your head, will help you feel more ready to face new challenges.
6. Be Grateful
Notice the little things and be thankful for them. For example, try noting down the small things you like at a new job. It can be any simple thing, like the indoor plants or the size of your new desk. Being grateful for these small things makes the big, scary changes a lot easier to face.
7. Develop Small Routines
Routine establishes a certain order in an otherwise chaotic world. Regular and consistent actions ground you. For example, you can wake up at 8 a.m. every morning and walk the dog, or make coffee while your computer is starting up. The key is to do these routines consistently every day.
These are just a few ways to successfully deal with change. Of course, it’s different for everybody, but these tips will hopefully get you started.
