What if we all viewed change as a creative process that opened us up to new possibilities? Do you think our relationships, workplaces, communities and the world would be different?
Let’s explore this perspective a bit further. Imagine if you were laid off. Instead of feeling angry, anxious and unsure of what to do next, what if you viewed the change as an opportunity to do something new, perhaps launch a new business you’d been thinking about for a few a few years, but had been afraid to start?
What if after a partner left you, you took the time to reflect on the relationship; what worked well and what didn’t? And, you took the time to write down all the lessons learned from the relationship as well as the qualities you wanted in a significant other and in a relationship? For example: someone who makes me laugh, who is a great communicator, someone who is physically active, and who loves being in nature? I did this a number of years ago and within 5 months of doing so my life partner and soul mate showed up who had all of the qualities I had written on my list!
Imagine if you were working in an organization that had a change in leadership, and instead of feeling uncertain and fearful, you viewed the change as an opportunity to learn and grow.
I invite you to “try on” this new perspective of viewing change over the next week and notice what you observe. It could be something as small as changing the way you usually respond to a person or situation. I welcome your comments and experiences below. Feel free to share this post with others who you think might benefit.
I had a situation that was feeling negative this past 2 weeks in the workplace. I stepped back and considered taking the situation ‘less personally’, and attempted to find the ‘positive’ side. I had a few insights come to me, and now I see the changes as being very positive. I can get hooked so easily sometimes, and if I can catch myself when that is happening, and reframe it (in other words, ‘look through a different lens’, it can create a new feeling of freedom). I will spend more time writing ideas down on paper, as you suggested in your article. I really like your visual — the camera lens”. As a ‘visual’ person, that is also very helpful. Thanks, Pam. I hope you are settling well into Victoria! SS in Salmon Arm
Hi Sandy, Thanks for sharing your recent experience with change and how you found a difference when you “viewed change through a new (more positive) lens”. Changing our ideas and perceptions does take time. Good for you for committing and trying something new! Warm Regards, Pam
I always want to try to see change as an opportunity to learn and grow, but it is so hard! It is so much easier to to fall into the comfortable pattern of fear and anxiety! I enjoyed your post, and I will keep trying!
Hi Josephine, Good for you to view change as an opportunity to learn and grow! It is definitely easier said than done. Appreciate your positive feedback. You may find the Transition Journey Quiz and Tips helpful. Warm Regards, Pam
I’ve always said that perspective is everything. This is a perfect example of that!
So true Barb! I appreciate your feedback. Warm Regards, Pam
Reading this now (It’s 5:55 am EDT) I am touched how this SAME MESSAGE came through my angel cards! I appreciate your metaphor of the camera lens and also use it in my writing. Thanks for the gentle reminder AGAIN to look at what’s happening in my outer world with FRESH EYES, a new lens. xo