Negotiating Life Change

Right this very moment our life is full of transitions and changes and we are smack dab in the middle of trying to figure out where everything will land.

It’s kind of like trying to catch a fish with your bare hands.  Just about the time you think you’ve got the fish nailed it wiggles and slips and all of the sudden you’re caught with a fish smack across the chops and hands that smell, well… fishy.

I do know a few things, mainly what not to do when you’re in the middle of change.

Don’t Panic.  Don’t… Panic…  I always say things will stay the same until the pain of change is equal to or less than the pain of staying the same.  Panic is an overwhelming response to change because you’re looking at things that are different.  That’s ok.  There is nothing great accomplished by maintaining the status quo.  Be bold, be adventurous, and keep the heart palpitations to a minimum.

Don’t wallow in Paranoia.  When in the midst of great life crisis it’s easy to become wildly paranoid.  Because you’re caught up in the massiveness of your own issues it’s easy to assume everyone else is wildly consumed with your issues, too.  Sorry to say it, most other people are going about their daily business and the world does not revolve around you.  Becoming paranoid that people are out to get you is completely counter-productive to navigating life changes.

Don’t Pretend.  As tempting as it may be, face the facts of life.  It may be easier to believe in a pretend world but let’s face the facts.  We tend to forget and avoid the negative things and overemphasize the positive.  Just look at the facts and make the best decision from this point forward.

One other piece of advice I can offer is to solicit the wisdom of at least three people who have your best interests at heart and are far enough from your own situation to be able to offer unbiased advice.

What suggestions do you have for negotiating life changes?