Navigating Change: From Anxiety to Resilience 💡
Change. For some, the word sparks excitement; for others, it feels like a looming mountain of uncertainty. Whether it’s a restructuring, a new leadership team, or a shift in digital strategy, change is the only constant in today's workplace. But if the thought of another "pivot" makes you want to run for the hills, you’re not alone.
As someone who is currently navigating lots of change at work, I am so glad I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about why change feels so draining and included strategies for dealing with change in my book - By Design - a guide to creating a career you love.
The Science behind Why We Worry
Our brains are wired to perceive change as a threat. Research suggests that our brains crave predictability. When the "status quo" shifts, the amygdala (our brain's alarm system) can trigger a threat response, leading to change anxiety. This isn't just "all in your head"—it's a biological survival instinct gone a little off-kilter.
When we are stuck in this threat state, we often fall into rumination—replaying "what if" scenarios over and over. This is like running your engine while keeping the car in park; it drains your prefrontal cortex and uses up your limited "cognitive bank account," making it harder to be productive.
Conducting a "Change Assessment"
So, how do we break free from the paralyzing fear of the unknown? A better alternative to avoidance is conducting a proper risk assessment.
Most of our anxiety is founded on "old data". To update your dataset and build resilience, start by getting the facts. This is an excerpt directly from my book. In the chapter on protecting your career design, I offer a few ideas for assessing change.
First, understand what is changing, why it is changing and when it is changing
Secondly, clarify the specific ways the change affects you
Finally, ask yourself what you need to know, learn, or do to thrive in the new reality
Building Your Resilience Toolkit
Resilience isn't about being "unbreakable"; it's about having the tensile strength to change, take on more or withstand pressure without breaking.
Keep an "Awesome Stuff I Did" List: During times of flux, it’s easy to lose sight of your worth. Track your wins to remind yourself of your capability.
Go In With a Plan: Just as you would for a difficult conversation, write down your strategy for navigating the change. Preparation reduces pre-change anxiety and keeps your rational thinking process online.
Self-Advocate: Don't wait for the dust to settle to see where you fit. Confidently communicate your value and actively seek out new opportunities that the change might create.
Remember: Your career is your journey. Don't sit around waiting for the "everything else" to sort itself out. Take control of the narrative, lean into the discomfort, and build the future you want.
Ready to level up your resilience? If you want to dive deeper into creating a career you love, even in the midst of uncertainty, grab a copy of my book, By Design.
Need to chat about a specific transition? Let’s talk. Book a free discovery session with me today to explore how coaching can help you lean in rather than lean back.
Until next time, live free!!
Cheers! Blessing
