The Positive Side to Change

It's safe to say we all enjoy the comfort of familiarity. You have routines that you go through on a daily and weekly basis that you probably don't even think about anymore. There are even days we can drive a familiar route somewhere and be surprised when we get there because we weren't really focused on the drive. Muscle memory kicks in.

John Maxwell says, "Change is inevitable, but growth is optional." Whether we like it or not, change is a part of life. Nothing stays the same forever. Whether it's a job situation, relationship, or community change like going to a different church or even having to go to a different restaurant or store because your old standard is closing, change happens to everyone.

Sometimes that change is a welcome breath of fresh air, and other times, it hurts because it's not by choice. However it comes, it is life-altering in some way.

Here are three things to remember when dealing with change:

1) Make change a choice when possible. You don't have to settle into a rut and wait for it to happen. Sometimes it's a good thing because it allows us to try new things and discover new areas that we can develop an interest in and excel in. When you have the opportunity to change something up, consider doing so on your terms rather than waiting for it to happen at an inconvenient time.

2) Choose to grow in the change, not just languish in it. Is there something you can learn in this time of flux? Is there an area you can grow in so you are better prepared when new opportunities come along? Even though it may be difficult to handle in the moment, as soon as you can catch your breath, begin to look for things you can take away from the experience.

3) Accept the fact that change is inevitable. It's going to happen. You can be at a job for 20 years, but you won't stay there forever. You can have friends for a long time, but there will come a time when they will be just a memory, with others to take their place. It's going to happen, so choose to see the value in every moment you live right now. Appreciate the good things in your life, and notice the small things that will later be big ones.

Change is often scary, but it doesn't always have to be. Look at it as a new opportunity.

Every year, I have a focus word. A couple of years ago, my word was "possibilities", and I truly tried to see the positive side to new opportunities that came along. It was a big year for me with a lot of life changes, and I didn't appreciate them all at the time, but now I see the good that has come from those moments.

Seek out those growth opportunities in life. Prepare for the changes ahead. And get excited about the new territory you'll be entering! You never know what amazing adventure is waiting next!

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