To deal effectively with change you need an understanding of your reactions to change and strategies to manage these reactions

As we all know change can be a positive or a challenging experience. We have all heard of the phrase ‘a change is as good as a rest’ and if you are experiencing this reaction to change these tips are not for you. This is designed for those of you who are involved in change which is proving to be a challenge

Whenever we experience a change, whether at work or at home, we go through a number of distinct phases. We will experience these stages with different degrees of intensity depending on the extent of the change and our individual sense of loss

Immobilisation – You may feel anxious, threatened and helpless; even overwhelmed. You may be unable to make plans or even simple decisions. You may find it difficult to think clearly or remember what has been said to you

Minimisation - This is a complex stage, people experience denial, resistance and minimisation. You may cling on to the old ways of working. There may be a sense of false elation as you minimise the sense of impact the change may have. You  will appear positive yet unwilling to look at the challenges and loss associated with the change. In trying to avoid the negative feelings of depression you may find yourself stuck here.

Depression - Here there is a realisation that the change is going to go ahead. There may be a sense of grief and an awareness of the losses incurred in the change. You can feel worn out, lethargic, bored and disinterested in the world around you. You may feel you have no control over the situation.

Testing – You will have accepted the reality of the change. You will begin to think through the pros and cons of the change, exploring possibilities, new ideas emerge, and you will begin to take some risks. This is where you will begin to feel that you are learning. You may also begin to feel higher levels of energy or enthusiasm to get things going

Some hints and tips to support you when change feels challenging

Don’t be afraid to take risks.  Do something rather than nothing, if it goes wrong, learn from it.  Carry the wisdom – not the baggage

Set and manage people’s expectations. Make sure those around you know how you are feeling. State the emotion rather than becoming emotional

Encourage feedback and act upon it.  Ensure a two way dialogue with others. Support and learn from each other

Be an advocate for the change.  When you have worked through the key issues of any change share your experience with others. Motivate and encourage those around you to embrace change

Share your vision!  Have a clear, concise vision of where you are going to, what you are trying to achieve.  Be able to articulate it clearly

Focus on what you can control.  Focus your energy and mind on the things that you can control.  Not on the things you can’t, it’s physically and mentally energy draining and mostly pointless.  Encourage others to do the same

Stop fighting change. Change can be stimulating and rewarding

Develop support relationships at work and home. People with friends on whom they can rely during stressful times experience fewer negative effects of the stress change

Build self-esteem. There is only one you. You have special talents and interests

If you have found this blog useful connect with Fairway to consider how Change might become an invigorating and rewarding element of your career.