by Adrean Turner
Most people will agree that the American workplace has changed more in the last five years than it has in the previous 25. Seismic shifts in technology, social media and management have drastically changed how we work. Corporate downsizing has led to many employees doing more with less. It’s no surprise that these changes have led to an overwhelming level of disengagement in the workplace. According to Gallup, over 23 million U.S. workers feel disconnected or dissatisfied with their careers.
Dealing with alterations to your normal work procedures can be frustrating, unwanted, and even scary. Learning to accept change at work is critical for your success. The key is to understand the change and to position yourself to receive the benefits so that you can excel despite the challenges. Implement these strategies to guide you towards embracing workplace changes with optimism for greater success at work.
1. UNDERSTAND YOUR CONCERNS ABOUT THE CHANGE. Ask yourself what scares you or makes you angry about a recent change at work. Once you know you’re concerns you will be able to deal with them to better succeed in the work environment. Maybe you think your job or paycheck is threatened. Perhaps you think the company might close because of the change. Explore all the possibilities. If you find that your concerns are legitimate, create a Plan B that you can implement in your worst-case scenarios. Once you make an action plan, resolve to let go of your uneasiness about situations you can’t control and optimistically expect the best results that could happen from the change.
“Change almost never fails because it’s too early. It almost always fails because it’s too late.” ~ Seth Godin
2. TRUST THE CHANGE. Be assured that the people running the company are making the choice to change for a reason that will benefit the company. Recognize that people in power have a picture of the entire situation. When I exited my career at a Fortune 100 company, the organization was at the beginning stages of implementing a new commercial strategy. I was part of the “Change” team so I had insight that others did not have. I understood the importance of the changes as they were necessary to maintain a healthy position in the industry. However, co-workers with less information were not as optimistic in embracing the changes. The changes didn’t limit me. They empowered me! Be committed to the goals of the organization to lessen your anxieties about the change to perform at your optimal level. If it’s best the company ultimately it’s best for you. 3. LIMIT “CHANGE” CONVERSATIONS. Avoid lengthy discussions with co-workers about changes, especially if your peers are focusing on negativity related to the changes. Some co-workers might be antagonistic due to their own fears and insecurities. Negative talk spreads like a cancer. Stay immunized by declining to share thoughts that might be interpreted as negative when engaging with others. Instead make an effort to be understanding and communicate thoughts about the positive results the change should bring. “The secret to change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but building the new.” ~ Socrates 4. ACCEPT THE CHANGE. Recognize that an important aspect of your work is to support the management and carry out your leaders’ directives. Simplify the situation for yourself by pledging to respect the changes and perform your duties as required. You are there for a purpose. That purpose is to do your job well, improve your skills and earn a paycheck. Stay focused on your goals and strive for excellence, regardless of the situation. “Change is the essence of life. Be willing to surrender who you are for what you could become!” 5. WELCOME THE CHANGE. Make a decision to face the change head-on and do whatever it takes to glean positive results from the new plans. Challenge yourself and have confidence that you can handle it. Your work situation might actually improve because of the new changes. This could be a time of rejuvenation, renewal and new found efficiency. Be patient throughout the implementation process. And allow yourself to expect your work situation to benefit your greater good. Although changes at work might be scary and unwanted, open your mind to the possibilities of change. Change provides an opportunity for skill building and new career experiences. Put some of these strategies into practice if changes occur where you work so you won’t be a part of the millions who aren’t engaged. Make it a purposeful decision – not a fleeting thought! You CAN embrace change at work and experience greater fulfillment with positivity, confidence, and patience!
Adrean Turner is a speaker, marketing consultant and university professor that supports individuals and organizations to achieve the results they desire for greater success in life and business.
(via Black Life Coaches)
