Heraclitus: "The only constant in life is change."
Life continually changes!! Anyone who knows me knows that I don't do well with change. I like things the way they are (good or bad) and dig my feet in when a change is coming. I may fight change, but I find my life easier or better when I finally give in.
When my ex-husband divorced me, I thought life was over. I spent months crying and being angry. I can say now that it was the best thing that happened. I would not be the person I am today if I stayed married. (I like who I am today!)
When my Diabetic Case Manager told me that I needed to start using an insulin pump, I said no and dug my feet in. I even wrote a blog about the situation. I have been using my pump for approximately three years, and for the most part, I love it. I sometimes get frustrated with technology issues, but the plus side of this pump is that I can take my insulin through my phone!! It is so much easier.
My friend Lisa Kennedy is my technology guru. She has been teaching me how to do things on the computer and phone for several years. When she shows me how to do something, I often tell her, "It's not going to happen." I usually make that statement because whatever she tries to teach me seems too tricky or time-consuming. When I am alone, and no one is watching me, I will tackle a project she gave me tips on completing. When I succeeded and started using the skill regularly, I found that it made the project easier or look better (for example, the newsletter I do for the Women's Chamber). Thank you, Lisa!!!
I was my own boss for five years, could do anything I wanted, and became very involved in the community. I have been put in a situation where I had to get a job. God blessed me, and I found a job I love. I am now the Development Coordinator for Martin Park.
Martin Park, Inc. has three parks. They are located in the Lowell neighborhood. This neighborhood is gang and drug-infested, and we aim to provide a safe place to be. We provide after-school programs. The kids come after school and have time to do homework, then meet together for a Bible lesson, an active sport, and free play until a parent picks them up. Right now, we have an excellent summer program going on. We also have several clubs the kids can be involved in, such as theater, learning how to make digital music and dance, and we are putting together an entrepreneur's club for our older kids!
I could go on and on about these phenomenal parks and staff, but I know when to stop. If you want to learn more about Martin Parks, Inc. Please get ahold of me. My contact information is on my website, sunflowers4life.com
I love going to work every day. It is a change that I am thrilled I made.
Every one of us has experienced good and bad change. When a change comes your way, embrace it and prepare for something new, which often improves life.
Dealing with change can be challenging, but several strategies can help you manage it:
1. Accept the Change
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Feeling uncertain or anxious about change is expected. Recognizing these emotions can help you process them.
Embrace Reality: Accept that change is a part of life and can often lead to growth and new opportunities.
2. Stay Positive
Focus on the Positive: Look for the potential benefits or opportunities the change might bring.
Maintain a Positive Attitude: Stay optimistic and remind yourself that you can adapt.
3. Seek Support
Talk to Others: Share your feelings and experiences with friends, family, or a support group.
Professional Help: Consider speaking to a counselor or therapist for additional support.
4. Be Flexible
Adapt Your Plans: Be willing to adjust your goals and plans in response to the change.
Learn New Skills: Sometimes, change requires new skills or knowledge, so be open to learning.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Practice Self-Care: Ensure you care for your physical, emotional, and mental health.
Stress Management: Engage in activities that help you manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
6. Stay Informed
Gather Information: Learn as much as you can about the change. Understanding its reasons and potential impact can make it less daunting.
Plan Ahead: Prepare for the change by setting realistic goals and creating a plan of action.
7. Keep Perspective
Look at the Big Picture: Try to see the change in the context of your overall life and long-term goals.
Stay Grounded: Focus on what remains constant in your life and what you can control.
8. Maintain Routine
Stick to Your Routine: Keeping some parts of your daily routine the same can provide a sense of stability and normalcy.
Create New Habits: If the change disrupts your routine, establish new habits that can help you regain a sense of control.
9. Set Realistic Expectations
Take It One Step at a Time: Break down the change into manageable steps and tackle them individually.
Be Patient: Allow yourself time to adjust and understand that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable initially.
10. Stay Open-Minded
Be Open to New Experiences: Embrace the change as an opportunity for growth and new experiences.
Stay Curious: Approach the change with curiosity and a willingness to learn and explore new possibilities.
Implementing these strategies can help you navigate changes more smoothly and emerge stronger and more resilient.
Have a great week!
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