Navigating Change
By: Averi Kaplowitch, LMSW
Change is never easy. It is a constant challenge filled with unknowns and uncertainty. While we can do our best to plan for how change might affect us, how we respond, and how we manage it, the truth is we often don’t know the outcome until it happens. As summer begins to wind down, the “end of the summer blues” and “Sunday night scaries” start to set in. Summer work schedules shift, school starts back up, the weather starts to change, and the stress begins to pile up.
While change can feel scary and daunting, there’s good news: you can take control of the parts of change that feel overwhelming. Here are three simple, yet powerful tools to help you navigate transitions:
Mentality. Your mentality and approach to the change and transitions shape the reality of the situation. If you go into a situation saying it is going to be impossible and stressful, that is probably how reality will feel. Seeing change to learn and grow, can allow you to move forward. Reflect on how you have handled past situations and reframe your capability.
Manifestation. If you believe you can, then you will. Setting clear intentions and motivations helps guide you through uncertainty. Try writing down your wants, wishes, or goals in a journal, on a sticky note, in your notes app or where you can see them daily. Shift your focus on what you want to happen, and put those actions into play.
Positivity. Positive forward thinking is key. Understand that it is okay to normalize the challenge you are going through while also looking for the small wins each day. Be optimistic. Be open to new ideas and go in with it with an open mindset. Positivity builds resilience.
Now, all of these things are easier said than done. We can say we will approach mentality, manifestation, and positivity with ease. However, that is where structure and consistency come in to allow you to apply these tools in your day to day life! Try combining the three tools above with these practical steps:
● Mentality. Plan your work, then work your plan. This will help you remain focused and allow you to see how you will approach your plan. Think about your strengths. You know yourself best!
● Manifestation. Write down the new responsibilities and tasks in your schedule that you have coming up. You will be able to decide how you want to plan what is ahead, what you want to do, and who you want to do it with. Set goals for yourself and see a future in which you can picture yourself accomplishing those goals.
● Positivity. Make time for yourself. At the beginning of each week, write down one thing you are going to do for yourself. You are allowing yourself to laugh, reset, and make change optimistically.
Not all aspects of change are in your control. Accepting and recognizing this allows for acknowledgement and for us to realize that it is okay! What we can control however, is how we respond and how we take care of ourselves. By using mentality, manifestation, and positivity, you will feel more empowered to create change and see a brighter future with strength and confidence.