Change is at the core of our existence, and yet, we strive to dodge it and remain in our comfort zones by default. While not every shift in our lives is welcome, we need to accept that the root of improvement and personal and professional growth lies in the ability to accept and adapt to change.

Without change, there would be no room for advancement, and evolution in every possible sense would be unlikely. The workplace is just another sphere where a planned change is welcome. However, both companies and individuals need adequate strategies to embrace change in the workplace, both planned and unplanned. And, thus, avoid disruptions in times of uncertainty.

To embrace change, you need to understand it

Perhaps the reasons why people resist change, in general, can be found in its unpredictability and the fear of the unknown. Most of the time, we can’t control the variables, but we can control how we (re)act. Learning how to positively deal with change is vital for every individual and company as a whole.

Not too long ago, the coronavirus outbreak completely stopped us in our tracks. We were and still are trying to redesign our daily lives, including how we operate at work. Constant change is, inevitably becoming a part of our working routine. The best we can do is embrace that change in the workplace and make it work for us.

To understand what’s ahead and diminish the fear of the unknown, it is key to gather as much information as possible. Only through educated decisions, those affected can get much-needed reassurance and comfort. Without the focus on trusted information, these may be difficult to obtain under new circumstances.

“The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.” – Kakuzō

Resistance is futile

This is a popular quote from the Star Trek series, but also a practical way of looking at things. Resistance to change in the workplace isn’t productive and serves nobody. Opening to the change, on the other hand, provides a plethora of new opportunities for improvement. If recognized and developed on time, one of those opportunities may redefine the way we do work or set ourselves apart.

Hence, the first step in embracing the change is acknowledging the possibility that stubborn resilience is not the way. Once we accept this on a personal level, we can easily apply it in the workplace.

With how much effort people will embrace the change partly depends on the management. Only competent leaders can navigate the organization through an uncertain period of change. They do it with the help of strong communication and listening skills, empathy, and intuition. After all, the organization is its people.

Your attitude toward life defines how you embrace change in the workplace

Which words describe a person with a positive attitude toward change? We will often hear that flexible, brave, adaptable, curious, positive, open-minded, patient, creative, strong-willed, enthusiastic people get through everything that life brings with ease. But it is not that simple.

While it may seem that those are exclusive character traits, those virtues can be learned and practiced. One’s outlook on life is based on a determination to survive and thrive, and with it comes the motivation to embrace change.

In other words, if you see the change as an opportunity, it will be an opportunity. If you don’t see it as such, you need to learn how to look. To do so, ask yourself:

• Am I looking only at the negative aspects of change? How many positive aspects can I determine?
• How do I feel about the change? What is the source of these feelings?
• Am I thinking in the long-term? Can this change bring benefits at some point in the future?

If you define a source of any negative feelings toward the change, you will be able to approach the problem on more rational grounds. This is where personal development begins.

Redefine your goals if necessary, but remain focused 

Planned changes are best accepted if introduced over time. But sometimes, they can come as a shock, leaving little or no time for preparation. In the latter case, goals set before them may need to be revised, or paths reworked. To more easily embrace change in the workplace, one needs to set a (new) goal, carefully progress in that direction, and regularly reassess the situation. It is the same as walking in the dark, always exploring ahead by making small steps until more light is shed.

There’s no better way to deal with change than focusing on job responsibilities that lead to achieving new performance objectives. The loss of control that often follows in the wake of an unplanned change can be mitigated. Even though they differ from our usual assignments, accomplishing tasks that we’re capable of can still bring about a sense of fulfillment, joy, and comfort.

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” – John F. Kennedy

There is strength in numbers

It is highly likely that you’re not the only one affected by the change. Look around and see how others deal with it and share your thoughts and experiences. The worst you can do is isolate yourself during the time of change when major shifts naturally tend to drive people deep into their comfort zone.

Exposing yourself to others is scary in its own right, but it also opens you to highly useful opinions and helpful practices you may not otherwise be aware of. Being part of a group empowers people, and navigating through the uncertainty the change brings is much easier together.