Autumn is a time for change. We all know that. We see it in our environments immediately taking place. Many of us find the changing of the leaves to be beautiful. So why is it that when big life events happen or when we need to change, we feel distressed, worried, and feelings of anxiety often overwhelm us?
Psychology tells us that adapting to change is one of the biggest factors that predicts success in coping and becoming happy. However, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed in our lives and to feel anxious when change is occurring; we fear loss and that is part of the human experience. But don’t let those feelings completely overcome you! Just like the leaves changing in the fall, there is beauty in it.
This autumn, I encourage you to challenge yourselves in these two ways:
- How can I see the beauty of change in my own life? (i.e. “I’m changing jobs… what about this can be beautiful?” or “I’m preparing for grad school… what value can I see in this experience?”)
2. What ways can I change myself to have a positive influence on others? (i.e. “Can I be more conscientious of other people’s journeys?” or “Can I learn not to pass judgement so quickly?”).
These exercises are not easy. Personally, right now I’m going through a lot of change. I have my future career on my mind, I’m thinking about where I’ll be living next year, and all of that comes with mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness. As for turning inward to my own self, I am on a daily mission to encourage others, and with that, I need to change and be more patient with others. Not everyone is in the same place in their lives right now and I need to remind myself of this!
So how will you change this Fall?
(Source on Adapting to Change: http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2014/09/27/adapting-to-change/)
-Hope Schmid, Founder of Warrior’s Pose
Warrior's Pose 