Change

Many years back my son went to a nice small elementary school that was walking distance from our house. School had a decent size library and used to have a movie night every month. He had great teachers, who adored him and always had good things to say about him; even the principal knew him by name. Bottomline, he had a comfortable school life where on most days he knew how his next day is going to shape out that was until he found out that we were moving and he would have a new school. Oh dear! That was not easy. He argued, cried, and resisted like any other kid of his age. This was not an easy change.

So, do you dread of this 'C' word ? If so, you are not alone.

I too don't like to change. Things like my Car, route to work, favorite cologne, Saturday morning's special breakfast. We are creatures of habit and once we form those habits, they are hard to break away from.

Same concept goes with work. I love the technology that I have been working in. I like the co-workers who I see every day and I like to be able to provide answers to my team. I don't want this to change but like most people I keep thinking about it. Everyone has their worries and fear:

• What will happen if technology takes my job?
• What will happen to my business, if that big brand store opens next door.
• What will happen if my employer loses his client.
• What will happen if my employer is bought out?

The constant question in this chain of thought is - "What will happen...?". Well, that's anyone's guess but one thing's sure, that change is coming whether you like it or not. Nothing in this world remains as-is forever. Believe it or not, even George Clooney can get old !

Back to my son, he is now in middle school and loves it. He has got new friends, and teachers. I am sure the new principal doesn't remember his name but still my son doesn't miss his old school. This was an example of forced change, as there was no other choice. But the point here is that change can be good, but the first thing is to always overcome fear of change.

A lot can be done to calm this natural fear amongst ourselves. It all starts with first accepting your fear. What are you afraid of? Losing your job, losing your business, losing competition. Imagine your worst nightmare. Write it down and then take some time for your subconscious mind to convert this fear into your strength. After a few days go back and write down why you are here and what is the worst that can happen if your fear comes true. Ask yourself, is that loss acceptable?

Chances are your answer would be "no". Then stay where you are and put yourself at risk. Try and find an alternative route. It could be a different skill, industry, or company. Prepare yourself, so when a wave comes you don't fall, but rise with the tide. You don't need to do this right away, but mark the path to take. When needed as the saying goes, "A good defence is the best offence".