Change often invites a great deal of emotion, and our approach to change is a primary signal of the level of our emotional intelligence. In today's post, which includes excerpts from my book, The Power of Emotion, we talk about learning to embrace change as an act of self-care and promoting our well-being.
THE POWER OF EMOTION | CHAPTER 26 | OVERVIEW
Change as Catalyst: Navigating the Unexpected Road to Success
Embracing change and self-care will change your life.
When it comes to change, are you someone who embraces or avoids it? For some, change is the spice of life that keeps them interested and excited. For others, it incites fear or uncomfortable feelings.
(Learn about strengthening your resiliency to help you overcome adversity next)
Embracing Change
It's impossible to control everything that happens in our lives. So, the best way to deal with change is to anticipate and prepare for it. These actions reduce the impact of intense emotions like shock, fear, surprise, and disappointment when change arises.
Planning for it doesn't mean we won't feel uncomfortable when change occurs. But if we consider the possibility of change is around the corner, we will be better prepared to deal with it when it happens.
Deliberate planning fosters a growth mindset and reinforces our confidence and flexibility skills. When we expect and prepare for change, we are empowered and better able to turn anxiety into action.
Your Mindset Makes a Difference
Having a growth mindset makes change easier. People who embrace change recognize that new opportunities often positively impact the trajectory of their lives. They enjoy taking measured risks and being challenged, which helps them grow and develop. They are willing to move out of their comfort zone where growth occurs. (Is your mindset providing you with optimum results? Find out in this post).
Embracing the opportunity to let go of what may not be working and start new routines is both motivating and exciting.
Planning for Change
There are two types of change: 1) the kind we plan for and 2) the kind that catches us by surprise. Determination, commitment, and the expectation that the road ahead may have a few bumps will be our most significant assets.
Those with high emotional intelligence know growth does not happen when they are comfortable. Indeed, there are times when being comfortable meets our current needs. However, feeling content at length may cause us to become stale and complacent. It can be dull and demotivating when we go through the same motions daily, negatively affecting our well-being.
Consider options that advance your self-care, like adding exercise into your daily routine. Trying something new, like an alternate career, starting a business, or repairing a relationship, are all changes we can plan for and place in our realm of control. Suggestions like these take you out of your comfort zone and encourage growth and development, impacting your overall well-being.
Without question, preparing for change is a proactive way to get out of your comfort zone, become more resilient, thrive, and increase self-awareness. All of the skills strengthen your emotional intelligence.
Unplanned Change
But what about the kind of change that catches us off guard and surprises us?
You wouldn't be human if you didn't gasp and wonder how you'll ever deal with it. But, if you practice strategies to monitor and manage your feelings, which I include in my book, you'll take a deep breath, reflect on the situation, and be determined to deal with it constructively. That's "planning for change," in hindsight.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change
Overcoming the fear that change drives and embracing change can be challenging but rewarding. Many people adapt to change, even if it appears too difficult. Recalling our past experiences where we have succeeded is evidence that we can do it. Planning for change and using our positive self-talk will make the experience achievable. Also, change invites new experiences and opportunities that can enhance our lives.
Finding Success Through Change
The ability to adapt, learn, innovate, and take advantage of opportunities presented by change can lead to personal and professional success. It's not just about weathering change but using it as a catalyst for growth and achievement. Change can lead to success by fostering adaptation, development, and innovation. Here's how:
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Embracing change cultivates adaptability, a crucial trait in dynamic environments.
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Change often brings new challenges and experiences, offering valuable opportunities for learning and personal development.
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Change disrupts routines, encouraging innovative thinking. Success often stems from seeing opportunities during change and generating creative solutions to emerging problems.
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Change can lead to process improvements and increased efficiency. Those open to reevaluating existing methods and embracing change find ways to optimize workflows and achieve better results.
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Success often requires taking calculated risks. Change can motivate individuals to step out of their comfort zones, fostering a mindset of initiative and risk-taking that can lead to significant achievements.
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Overcoming challenges associated with change builds resilience. Resilient individuals bounce back from setbacks, maintaining focus and determination, crucial attributes on the path to success.
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Change often creates gaps or needs that can be transformed into opportunities. Those who can identify and seize these opportunities are more likely to achieve success.
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Change fosters a culture of continuous improvement. Individuals who embrace change are more likely to engage in ongoing self-reflection and seek ways to enhance their skills and performance.
Now that you know why embracing change is an act of self-care that promotes well-being, you can improve your emotional intelligence to prepare yourself for a change! Be sure to get your copy of my book, The Power of Emotion, for more actionable insights and tips for embracing change.
This article was originally published on November 9, 2021, and has been updated (January 2024).
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