3 Keys to Navigating Seasons of Personal Change

People approach the coming of fall from different perspectives. Some are energized by cooler temperatures, excited by the approaching holiday season, and happy about the return of favorite fall foods and flavors. Others, lament the end of warm summer days, extended light, and a more laid back schedule, plus, dread the harshness and darkness of winter. Still others cast a wistful glance at the waning season while pivoting, with expectancy, in the direction of what lies ahead.

No matter which describes you, your perspective on personal seasons of change has an impact on forward motion. Here are ways to gain perspective:

Analyze Resistance

Most people do not immediately accept change that is not of their own design, especially if it involves loss. Any significant change in your life patterns carries with it the possibility of anxiety and frustration. Resistance is inherent in change. Beyond that , what are your underlying emotions? Fear? Anger? Uncertainty? Are you daunted by knowledge you’ll need to acquire or by changes in location or schedule? When your former reality is overshadowed by something new and unknown, it’s normal to meet the change with hesitancy. Dig down and figure out why you are resistant.

Refresh Perspectives

When I edit my blog content each week, I try to catch as many mistakes as possible before I insert the text into the blog. But even after multiple reads and tweaks, I rarely catch all the errors before it posts. Then I have to edit, update, and remember to “flush the cache,” or the edits won’t show up on my site. I’m no techie, so I can’t give you the technical terms for what happens when the cache is flushed, but my non-techie understanding is it removes the text that is hovering in view and allows the new text to show up. But one more step is required. On my blog page, I have to hit the refresh button. Only then can I see corrections show up.

Gaining a fresh perspective on change is a lot like flushing the cache and refreshing the page on my blog. You have to clear away your past view and look at changes with fresh eyes. While not the easiest thing to do, it is somewhat akin to blinking your eyes when looking for objects in a hidden picture. When you take a second look, shapes that were hidden, and in the case of life, new benefits, now come into view. Wipe away current perceptions and allow yourself to see from a fresh perspective.

Embrace Growth

I don’t know about you, but when I leave my house and get in my car, I like to know where I’m going and that I will eventually return home at some point. I have always been amazed by the Bible character Abraham because of his unwavering faith and trust. When God told him to get up and go, he went, without question. Not many people willingly embrace change in that manner, especially when well established in current locations and situations.

Often the concept of change has a negative connotation. However, changing seasons of life bring new opportunities. What initially feels daunting  and impossible when change first occurs, may later result in new friendships, a sense of personal or professional accomplishment, unexpected fulfillment and joy, and a better quality of life.

God often allows change to ignite personal and spiritual growth, but usually we are resistant. Instead, look for what God is teaching you through change. Be willing to adapt and grow and experience the rewards of trusting God and moving forward in seasons of change.

“God is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t worry.” Deuteronomy 31:8 MSG

What is your greatest struggle regarding change?

©CandyArrington

 

 

 

 

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