Thriving in Times of Change

Thriving in times of change

 

Ever notice how some people sail through life seemingly without a care and others get hooked or caught on something along the way and seems to be stuck.  As Heraclitus said "The Only Thing That Is Constant Is Change" and some people have trouble accepting that fact.  If Heraclitus said this over 2,500 years ago, then I would suggest it is even more relevant now than ever before.

So, what are the secrets of thriving in times of change?  Well the big number one is just accepting what Heraclitus said, you can't fight it, you can't argue against it or you can't refuse to accept it, but that makes no difference what so ever, because it is an irrefutable fact, and change is getting faster and faster.  Like King Canute who thought his command could hold back the tide, it's not possible.

If accepting that change is constant is the first step, then the second is taking charge of yourself.  People think in terms of what they're worried about and what they can do, sometimes the former is so overwhelming that it totally overshadows the later.  People who thrive in times of change think about what they can do and influence and focus on that, they understand the things they can't influence are not worth the effort.  Don't waste your time on things you can't change.

People who thrive on change are optimistic, they believe in the good in themselves, the people around them and the world in general.  This positive outlook is a key component of thriving in times of change.  Optimism starts with positive self-talk and a willingness to see the best in any situation, looking for the silver lining each time.

Thriving in times of change means having a plan, taking control and working that plan.  It's not a plan locked in concrete, and it may change, but it is a plan or direction. People who thrive don't leave their future in the hands of others, they don't rely on something else happening before they are empowered, they empower themselves to deliver results, they have a direction, and objective and a goal.

The final attribute of a person who thrives on change is an ability to be flexible and adapt to the situation, keeping an open mind to the possibilities.  An ability to look at the endless opportunities in time of chaos is a common trait of those wo thrive in times of change.  

In summary, the keys to thriving on change are:

1. Actually accepting change is constant
2. Take responsibility for your own actions
3. Be optimistic
4. Make a plan
5. Be flexible

Easier said than done, but you can train your mind to think the way that best helps you through life, in times of change, being a thrive not just a survivor is the difference between a happy life or one full of frustration.