The Truth About Change and How Embracing It Will Help You Grow
How strange that the nature of life is change, yet the nature of humans is to resist change. And how ironic, that the difficult times we fear might ruin us, are the very ones that can break us open and make us blossom into who we are meant to be. — Elizabeth Lesser, Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow
Change is the one constant in life, yet we often find ourselves resisting it. It's human nature to hold on to the familiar and fear the unknown. But what if I told you that embracing change can be one of the most empowering and transformative things you can do for yourself?
Recently, I’ve had to confront change head-on. Someone close to me has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's. This news was a devastating blow and has forced me to re-evaluate my relationship with change. I found myself faced with a choice: I could either continue to be upset about how this person has changed and will continue to change, or I could accept change as a natural part of life.
It's not easy. Accepting change requires a shift in perspective and a lot of inner work. But I've learned that trying to resist and control the inevitable only leads to disappointment and suffering. Instead, I’ve decided to embrace the changes, no matter how challenging, and look for opportunities to grow, learn, and become more resilient and supportive.
Here are some ways you can change your perspective on change and deal with it more effectively:
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
It's okay to feel scared, sad, or angry about change. Acknowledge these feelings rather than suppressing them. Journaling or talking to someone who feels safe can help you process your emotions.
2. Find the Silver Lining
Even in the toughest times, there's usually something to be grateful for or a lesson to be learned. Try to find the positives in any situation. This doesn't mean ignoring the negatives but balancing them with the good.
3. Focus on What You Can Control
You can't control everything, but you can control how you respond to change. Focus on your actions and attitudes rather than the uncontrollable aspects of your situation.
4. Seek Support
You don't have to go through changes alone. Reach out to friends, family, or professionals. Sharing your experiences and getting support can make the process more manageable.
5. Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself during times of change. Understand that it’s normal to struggle and that you’re doing your best. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend in a similar situation.
6. Stay Open to New Possibilities
Change often brings new opportunities and experiences. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore new paths. You might find that what lies ahead is even better than what you left behind.
My Personal Journey with Change
When I received the news about this person’s diagnosis, I was consumed by grief and fear. I dreaded the changes that were already happening and the ones yet to come. But as time passed, I realised that resisting these changes would only cause more pain.
I made a conscious decision to accept what was happening, to be present, and to support this person in the best way possible. This shift in perspective didn’t come overnight, and it’s still a daily practice. But it has brought me a sense of peace and allowed me to focus on moments of joy and connection.
Change, while often challenging, can also be a powerful catalyst for growth. By embracing it rather than resisting it, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and strengths we never knew we had. So, let’s welcome change, move with it, and see where it can take us.
Are you ready to embrace change and grow from it? Join my newsletter here for regular insights, inspiration, and practical advice on embracing change and living your best life. Together, we can grow and thrive through life's inevitable changes.
If you're navigating a challenging change and need some support, don't hesitate to reach out to me via email at francesca@empoweredwomenscircle.com. I'm here to listen and help you find your way.
With love and empowerment,
Francesca 🪴✨
Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich