One of the reasons why people succeed in their business or other activities is that they are not afraid of change. However, the fear of change is the main barrier to development. If a person is unsatisfied with life conditions they are currently in, they should change something in their life. You will never succeed without change. It is the choice you make to act. It is never about stagnation. Sometimes, change is about risk. It may be related to the risk of losing something or winning. Thus, it is necessary to find ways to overcome change resistance and fear.
1. Why You May Experience Fear of Change
When Uncertainty Is the Main Hurdle
The first and the main cause of such fear is uncertainty. French (2024) pointed out the role of this factor in relation to planned and unplanned events. When a person does not know what to expect, they may be resistant to change.
For example, you may need to meet and talk with someone whom you do not know to decide on matters important to you and your professional life. Because you do not know what to expect from such a person, you are likely to experience fear.
When Control Is no Longer in Your Hands
You may experience fear when you no longer control the situation. The person may be resistant to accept something new since there may be a possibility that they will lose control of some aspects of their life.
For example, moving to a new place, one may feel a spectrum of various emotions, losing control over things that they have been accustomed to.
When Stability Is at Risk
Such a factor can influence various populations from different social groups. Staying within comfort zones raises fear of change.
For example, people with high income can fear losing their social position, while those with low income may fear of the failure to overcome a threat to their finances.
When Catastrophic Thinking Is Part of You
Always imagining the worst scenario can hinder changes in your life. Such a perception of the world is part of negative thinking.
Start changing your life with changing perception and thinking patterns from negative to positive.
Any situation can be perceived as an opportunity to become stronger and grow or as the worst case ever.
Any change depends on choice.
When Fear of Failure Is a Friend of Fear of Change
Self-doubt, procrastination connected to it, and excessive analysis that borders on perfectionism may impede change. Believe in your success as a result of change to overcome resistance. Accept the possibility of failure as something normal and temporary. There are always ups and downs in human life.
2. How to Cope with Fear of Change and Overcome Resistance
In fact, the person has nothing to lose in this life except for life. Thus, life is the only loss you can fear of. Accept all changes as part of your life.
When You Accept Feelings
Accept your feelings and fears. You can analyze them in a journal or just take a moment for conscious thinking through mindfulness-based techniques. It is the first step to understanding your situation and why you may be resistant. When you practice acceptance, you realize the issue affecting you and can address it.
When You Break Down Change
When you start changing your life with small changes, it is easier to make greater achievements. Start with turning such minor changes into daily routine and introduce something new gradually. As a result, you can reduce uncertainty, have more control over your life, and address procrastination.
When Growth Mindset Comes Instead of Catastrophic Thinking
You can embrace growth mindset through writing a journal and accepting the situation. When you start viewing change as an opportunity to grow despite challenges, you can overcome your catastrophic or negative thinking. As a result, you become more prepared for change because you have already accepted it and overcome resistance.
When You Seek Support
When you have a circle of close people, family, or professionals who can support you, your can become less loaded emotionally. Sometimes, sharing your fears with the right people can help you navigate complex situations and emotions.
When You Practice Self-Compassion
When you accept hurdles on the way to change as part of the transformation process, it is possible to overcome related anxiety. Celebrate minor achievements.
Takeaways
- Acceptance is the first milestone on the way to change.
- Overcoming the fear of change can avail new opportunities in life.
- Leaving your comfort zone can lead to new ideas.
- Remember that if you overcome the fear to lose something, you become a winner and grow personally.
Reference
French, M. (2024, March 12). Fear of change: What it is and how to cope. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fear-of-change-phobia
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