When Changes Are Challenging

Posted on 14. Nov, 2009 by frank in leadership

I have quite a few friends and family going through some changes right now and I was reminded of a post I wrote a while ago that I thought would be good to post again.

As a leader in the church, sometimes change is one of the most challenging things for people to cope with especially volunteers. During some of my challenging change moments I have had people ask me how I remain so positive despite the rapid change around me. Here is my short list of things I try to do to stay positive:

1. Become Part Of It

Often, the people that are negative about change, are struggling because they are resisting what is happening. These people refuse to let go of the past and some even actively pursue opposing objectives (out of spite) to resist a change that is going to take place . The people that cope best are those that trust the leaders around them and engage in whatever it is that is happening.

If your church, job, family, or volunteer organization is going through some rapid changes you should involve yourself in the process. Connect with the leaders in your organization and ask how you can help implement whatever changes that are going to take place. By doing this, many times you will be provided with information that puts your mind and heart at ease. Hopefully this new information will help you understand why the change was necessary. Once you understand, you can help others understand.

2. Focus On The Positive

Sometimes staying positive is hard. Even after you have made a decision to trust your leaders, it can still be challenging. I recommend sitting down with a pen and paper and writing down some good things you can come up with about the change you are experiencing. Then when you hear others say negative things you can respond with the positive things you wrote down instead of becoming part of a gripe fest. Challenge yourself to avoid negative talk and track on paper how well you do. You’ll probably be surprised at how negative you really are. In my experience I have found that some people have a habit of ignoring their negativity simply because they believe they are right.

3. Deal With The Negative

Becoming part of the change and focusing on the positive DOES NOT make the negative stuff in your head go away. Engaging change may help you become a more positive, but you can’t ignore your thoughts and feelings. To deal with your concerns about the change you are experiencing, communication is KEY. A lack of communication can actually cause more negative feelings between you and others around you. Go to the person that is most excited about the change taking place and ask them questions about your concerns. DON’T COMPLAIN, JUST ASK QUESTIONS. After receiving your answers, relax and take a day to process what you’ve heard.

What if this doesn’t work?

Change is easy for no one, not for those that initiate it nor others that have to implement it. We have to remember to be flexible and patient so that that we can think clearly and be objective when we see the results.