Weathering Turbulent Times
(excerpted from Shepell-fgi)
Change is always around us. In addition to personal change, there are global, technological, economic and social shifts that affect us, and all things considered, it's understandable that most of us feel we are living in turbulent times. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 72 per cent of employees feel stress caused by uncertainty.
When we don't know what's coming next, we respond by feeling anxious or by worrying. This anxiety causes stress.
THE PHASES OF CHANGE
1.
DENIAL: Thinking: "This can't be happening to me!"
2. RESISTANCE: Acknowledge all the emotions that you're feeling. The sooner this is done, the sooner the move to the next phase.
3. LET GO OF THE PAST AND LOOK TOWARDS THE FUTURE: By accepting change and adapting to it comes renewed energy.
Experts tell us that adjustment to a major change takes time. In fact there are phases we go through when adapting to change.
These phases are predictable; however, the duration of each can vary because adapting to change is an individual process. It's important to realize that what we are actually dealing with is loss, saying goodbye to the familiar
How to deal with change
Here are some tips to consider:
Learn about change. You may find it helpful to read some books that deal exclusively with handling change.
Maintain a positive attitude. If you find yourself saying negative things to yourself: “I can't change” or “things are just going to get worse” or “that's my luck” - try the following:
- Stop Technique: Imagine a big, red stop sign in front of you when you have a negative thought. This signals to you that it's time to switch to more positive thoughts.
- Balance-sheet Technique: Write down a positive point to offset each complaint.
- Visualize: Think of a place that is peaceful and relaxing, like a secluded oasis.
Practice stress management. In times of change, some people resort to overeating or alcohol abuse in an effort to control stress; but these strategies accomplish nothing and can harm us. Find some skill, activity or technique that will help you to relax, such as exercise, listening to music or gardening. Discover what works for you and make it part of your routine.
Look after yourself. During times of change, we spend so much time worrying that we tend to neglect ourselves. Remember that change requires energy. Proper nutrition, adequate rest and regular exercise will help provide the energy you need to be resilient in times of change.
Maintain relationships. Spending regular time with family or friends can help recharge your batteries.
Find ways to handle a heavier workload. It's not unusual to hear people say: “too much to do and too little time to do it.” But ask yourself: “am I making the best use of my time?” Discuss time management with co-workers who are well-organized and efficient or read books and articles on time management and adapt the ideas for yourself.
View change as an opportunity. It's our evaluation or reaction to a situation, not the situation itself, that causes stress. Instead of becoming overwhelmed, take advantage by learning a new skill, becoming more efficient and productive, or challenging your own abilities to adapt to a new situation. Above all, the ability to weather turbulent times involves awareness: we do have some control over the changes in our lives.
