What triggers change? What encourages change? What makes change more bearable? Aside from a few hand-picked theories and models on change, we collected a few inspirational quotes that might support your change initiative or journey 'along the wave'.
PC: Holger Rogge // @holgerrogge
Let's face it - change is not in our comfortable nature
We like comfort. We like knowing. We like controlling. Things we like are not necessarily in tune with things 'change' likes, at least so it seems at first. The sensations change triggers are strong and emotional, exciting or scary. A great trigger factor is the confrontation with increased perceived and felt uncertainty.
In this summary we explore the characteristics of change and accumulate some thoughts on how to help dealing with it in style (if possible: Is there a recipe to be comfortable with change?)
What is change usually associated with?
''Change is often associated with transformation, growth, and progress. It implies a departure from the status quo or the way things currently are, and a movement towards something new or different. Change can occur in many different areas of life, including personal relationships, work, health, society, technology, and the environment.''*
Change is rather dynamic than static.
''Depending on the context, change can be seen as either positive or negative. For example, positive changes may include improvements in one's personal relationships, achieving career goals, or progress in social justice and environmental causes. Negative changes may include things like loss of employment, deterioration in health, or social and political unrest.''
The effect change has on us is perceived positive or negative, depending on the context and the perspective.
''Overall, change is a natural part of life and can bring both opportunities and challenges. It is often necessary for growth and progress, and can lead to new and exciting experiences. However, it can also be disruptive and unsettling, particularly when it occurs unexpectedly or outside of our control.''
We can be active change co-creators or passive change victims. The choice is ours.
''The Kubler-Ross change curve, also known as the five stages of grief, is a model that describes the emotional and psychological journey that people typically go through when faced with significant change or loss. The five stages are:
Denial: In this stage, people may struggle to accept that a change or loss has occurred, and may try to maintain the status quo.
Anger: As reality sets in, people may begin to feel angry or frustrated about the situation.
Bargaining: In this stage, people may try to negotiate with themselves or others in an attempt to find a way to avoid the change or loss.
Depression: As the reality of the situation becomes more apparent, people may feel sadness, grief, or hopelessness.
Acceptance: In the final stage, people begin to come to terms with the change or loss and may start to see new opportunities or possibilities.''
Change does somehow imply loss. We say no to the old and yes to the new or different.
'' It's important to note that not everyone goes through all five stages, and the order and intensity of the stages can vary depending on the individual and the situation. The Kubler-Ross change curve is often used as a framework for understanding the emotional and psychological impact of change, and can help people to better understand and navigate their own reactions and feelings.''
How can we become friends with change?
'' Dealing with change can be challenging, especially when it occurs unexpectedly or involves a significant shift in our lives. Here are some tips on how to cope with change:
Acknowledge your feelings: Change can bring up a range of emotions, including anxiety, fear, sadness, and excitement. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and give yourself permission to experience them.
Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential during times of change. This may include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that you enjoy and that bring you a sense of calm and relaxation.
Focus on what you can control: While change may be out of your control, there are often things you can do to help manage the transition. Focus on the things you can control, such as your own actions and reactions, and try not to worry too much about things that are outside of your control.
Be open to new experiences: Change often brings new opportunities and experiences. Be open to these possibilities and try to approach them with a sense of curiosity and optimism.
Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a professional if you're struggling with change. Talking to others about your experiences can help you process your emotions and gain new perspectives on the situation. ''
Teams and organisations dealing with change are dealing with accumulated emotional reactions. Group-care becomes another layer of importance. Emphasis on increased communication, empathy, transparency, comfort, mindfulness, engagement, management of expectations...the list can be tailored to context. Most important is to acknowledge that extra group-care is needed.
'' Remember that change is a natural part of life, and while it can be difficult at times, it can also lead to personal growth, new experiences, and exciting opportunities. By practicing self-care, focusing on what you can control, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate through periods of change with greater ease and resilience.''
How change changes us
Here are some quotes that we thought might help in empathising and dealing with change. We do not necessarily agree with all of them and that is ok. They are rich trigger for thought and help play with perspectives.
We like to link into focussing energy on building the new, and to facilitate you in doing so, too.
Strategic Creative Facilitation with Sparks
As part of our Values Driven Journey and in context of the bigger picture, which we wrapped up in our Contextscanner©, we offer some great tools to facilitate individuals, teams and organisations throughout transformations, strategically with a creative twist.
Strategy nurtures creativity and vice versa and creativity influences the attitude we take towards events.
Whether you are at the beginning, in the middle or almost at the final stage of the project or change initiative, connect to learn about your options.
Best Wishes,
Helene ✨
* Sections indicated by '' are taken from my conversation with Chatgpt // openai.com