How Do You Deal With Change In Uncertain Times?

It’s an election year, the government is bailing out mortgage and insurance markets alike, and acquisitions proceed at a break neck pace within the document industries. With jobs in jeopardy, a shaky economy, and foreign affairs tumultuous it stands to reason the average Joe might  be experiencing just a little anxiousness. I know when I look at my 401k, it makes me a bit nervous…

Change, as a dynamic to life, is something we all count on happening, but we often allow ourselves to become complacent. “The change will be gradual enough that I will have time to adjust,” is the line we sell ourselves. “I’ll always have tomorrow to get that certification, talk to that client, or spend time with my daughter,” is what we console ourselves with.

There are 4 distinct ways in which we might choose to deal with a major upheaval in our lives:

1. Deny It.

We weren’t ready for it, don’t want to believe it could happen to us, or can’t admit it was coming. Regardless of how we get hit with the news, shock and denial are often the first reactions (maybe besides physical nausea) that we experience when confronted with a major disruption to our comfortable routine.

If you allow yourself the luxury of wallowing in it, this is the equivalent to finding yourself a nice dark corner, sticking your thumb in your mouth, and crying about it.

2. Fear It.

Generally speaking, fear is one of the next steps we go through. Think about this: You’ve just been handed your pink slip and told to pack up your things. How do you not get a little weak in the knees?

A good idea is to simply distill your fear and find out exactly what it is you are afraid of. Are you worried about where your next meal will come from, who will pay for those doctor’s bills, or how long it might take to find another job? Those are all very legitimate fears, so your next course of action is to construct a game plan on how you are going to achieve your goals.

Just like you would turn on the lights in a dark room, it is important to apply knowledge in situations where fear runs rampant. By doing so, you will quickly ascertain the truth of the matter.

3. Fight It.

As we learn in school, the fight or flight instincts in us come out when confronted with matters of survival. A common aspect of dealing with change is to attempt to fight back the coming tide. This can often be viewed as noble, and there are most certainly times where continuing the fight is exactly what needs to occur.

If you are rational about where you make your stands, and keep focused upon your long term goals, fighting can be exactly what you need. However, do not mistake ego with chivalry as it will not only damage you, but those you hold dear as well.

4. Embrace It.

Generally speaking, this is the final aspect of change management – acceptance of the facts as they stand. By embracing change, you agree to view the world as it stands, and not how you choose to see it. This allows you to make decisions clearly and concisely.

The Wrap-Up.

The majority of how you deal with far-reaching change is your perception of the change itself, as well as whether you feel prepared to weather the proverbial storm. No sage wisdom here folks. Remember, be honest with yourself – allow your mind to find its way to the truth of the matter; the quicker your mind embraces the truth, the better you will be able to adapt to this bold new world and ensure you are still a viable part of it.

Ken Stewart’s blog, ChangeForge.com, focuses on the collision between the constantly changing worlds of business and technology. Ken is also the Director of Technology at Kearns Business Solutions.