So how do we adapt effectively? There is no magic formula that results in change being viewed as positive or beneficial versus change being viewed as negative or detrimental, as individual responses to change vary. There are some universal factors, however, that promote healthy adaptation to change. A good place to start is to expect mixed emotions and to expect some resistance, as all change, no matter how small, brings with it a degree of uncertainty. It can be helpful to examine your expectations of change by asking yourself questions such as, "Is my expectation reasonable? If I asked 100 people about this, what would they say? Will this matter five years from now?"  Check your energy levels, as adapting to change requires mental energy to figure out how to respond, emotional energy to manage those mixed feelings, and physical energy in possible new behaviors.  Managing stress during times of change can be enormously helpful, and making time to relax, to have fun, and to engage in activities that bring joy and renewal can make change seem less daunting.

Finally, recognize when the demands of change exceed your capacity, resources, or energy levels. Check in with a trusted friend or advisor, or seek the counsel of a trained mental health professional. Your Horizons EAP is here to help! 

Drucker, P. (1973).  Management:  Tasks, responsibilities, practices.  New York, NY:  HarperCollins.

Miller,  W.R. & Rollnick, S. (2013).  Motivational interviewing:  Helping people change (3^rd ed).  New York, NY:  The Guilford Press