Adaptability is key
Huge change has come into our lives as a result of a worldwide crisis and whilst we can take some comfort in the fact that we are all going through this together, we also cannot escape the impact of the situation and the adjustments we now need to make in order to survive and thrive. Those who adapt well to change do not panic when a situation arises – they find solutions. And whilst of course this is easier said than done, there are ways that you can help yourself navigate through these turbulent times and emerge out of the other side stronger than before.
Find acceptance
This can be the most difficult part so be kind to yourself. Allow yourself to feel every emotion and thought and maybe take the time to write these down. Admit to yourself that the change has occurred and take note about what has been lost but more importantly on what has been gained. Once you accept the situation you’re in and that you have no control over it, you’re ready to move on and move powerfully into action.
Reflect on how you’ve handled past changes
Thinking about how you’ve responded to change in the past will help you to navigate your way through the current situation. How did you approach things last time you went through a major change? What worked and what didn’t? What lessons did you learn that you can use now? Most importantly, you are still here, which means regardless of how you handled it, you got through it and you’re here to tell the tale.
Actively choose a positive mindset
Adopting a positive attitude can only improve how you’re feeling and shape your response to the current scenario. As much as change can be painful and damaging, it is also a really great opportunity in which to grow and develop – but you must be open to it. Set short-term goals to move through this period of uncertainty. Look at what you need to accomplish those goals, find a way to reframe any negative thoughts into positive ones, and be on the lookout for new opportunities. Have faith that it will all work out.
Face your fears head on
Think about what scares you in terms of what has been lost and what you are scared to do. You might find yourself making excuses and lacking in self-confidence. Nothing exciting ever happens in our comfort zone. Fear can stop us from making progress, so we need to step back in order to move forward. Embrace any uncomfortable feelings and visualise yourself getting through this time and emerging out of the other side stronger than before.
Talk to others about how they’re adapting
The benefit (which seems strange to say) of this being a worldwide pandemic is that everyone is having to adapt to the same change so you can talk to others about the steps they’re taking and the tactics they’re employing. They might have suggestions about what you can do to adapt, and they can tell you if what they’re doing is working – and more importantly what hasn’t worked. Keep an eye on your competition. This enables you to know what you are up against and what the expectations of the market are. If they’re doing something that seems to be attracting positive attention, see if there’s a way you can do something similar whilst developing your own spin on things.
Keep learning
It might seem obvious but now is the perfect time to expand upon your current skill set and knowledge. Start an online course, attend a virtual event or webinar – anything that might benefit your career or further your personal development. Get up to date with the latest technology and leverage it to your advantage. Adaptability is a requirement in the current world, and we must be flexible to succeed.
It is impossible to avoid change – no matter how big or small – it’s always going to happen. But if we can learn to adapt and embrace it, and take this opportunity to learn and grow, our resilience can only increase, and we will be ready to take on whatever faces us.