Woman to Woman: Boldy Embracing Change

We like the comfortable, predictable flow of our days and lives. Change pushes us out of that comfort zone into the unknown. Drastic life changes like the pandemic, illness, or unexpected financial hardship rattle us, but even small changes can cause anxiety.

Recently, a friend of mine changed her longer hairstyle for a shorter, curly "do" & threw in a hair color change to boot. Even though she has changed her hairstyle at least 6 times in the 10 years I've known her, she was fearful that her new idea would not turn out right. At least hair grows back!!

The point is, change causes us to second guess, fearing the outcome if we are unprepared. Even if we have the privilege of preparing for a life change, it still creates feelings of anxiety.

As you contemplate the current seasonal change, and maybe some upcoming personal changes, try these few tips for having a more relaxed, welcoming attitude towards change.

Journal. Or at least grab a sheet of paper and write down any coming changes you anticipate, and the corresponding emotion you feel when thinking about the change. Note, not all change brings negative emotions!
Assess Control. Look at your list and the changes causing the most anxiety. Determine how much control you have over the change. Sometimes an aspect exists we can control or alter making the change easier.
Accept and welcome. Ultimately what we resist, persists. If you assessed a change causing you anxiety, as one for which you have little or no control, accept and welcome it. Resisting heightens anxiety and wastes energy. Channel your energy into creative ways to adapt to the change and grow through it.
Reframe. After accepting and welcoming the change, begin reframing the way you view it. If you view change through the lens of fear, you create a negative outcome for yourself. Even a difficult change like a marriage separation or divorce has positive aspects like, possible reconciliation, space for personal growth and a new start.
Acknowledge the pain. Change is difficult. Avoiding or denying the hard reality of change merely increases anxiety. Even as you reframe and focus on positive outcomes, you are not creating an unrealistic view. It means you know in the midst of hard change, there is more than the pain. But at the same time, the pain will have a purpose.

Thinking about change reminded me as Ecclesiastes 3:1 says,

"There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens."

We will face and pass through change, but Hebrews 13:8 reminds us,

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever."

We can trust Him to walk with us through change and redeem each and every circumstance for our good and His glory.

So my friend, as you enjoy the sweet changes of autumn, embrace that change can be beautiful, and that God has promised to be with you every step of the way.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

What is the most difficult aspect of change for you?

How can you reframe change and learn to trust God more fully in the midst of it?