Preparing for & Dealing with Change PREPARING FOR COLLEGE & CAREERS MRS. TORP

Three Stages of Change  1. Letting go – acknowledging/accepting that change is coming.  2. Transition – learning and dealing with new ideas, methods and information.  3. Starting over – moving forward in the “new path.”

Premises about Change  1. Change is not easy.  2. Change is almost always met with resistance.  3. The person who initiates change almost always encounters resentment.  4. Change requires leaving our “comfort zone.”  5. Change requires courage.

Attitudes that Hinder Change  The “I can’t” syndrome - Fear of taking chances  Apathy, or the “I don’t care” syndrome- Loss of motivation  Closed mindedness- The “let someone else deal with it” syndrome  Unfounded anxiety

Guidelines for Dealing with Change  1. Get involved in the change – try directing it to a desired outcome instead of just “letting it happen”  2. Let go – let the past go so that you can move forward  3. Hold on – maintain those relationships, memories and dreams that keep you happy  4. Ask for help – if you need help coping, ask for it  5. Develop a sense of humor – use humor/laughter to help you cope

Guidelines for Dealing with Change  6. Focus on the outcome – look beyond the uncomfortable changes to see the end results  7. Search for information – educate yourself about the required changes  8. Take risks – be willing to take calculated risks that can lead to progress  9. Have an open mind – be willing to listen to all sides, and avoid judgment until you’ve adjusted  10. View change as growth – be positive… without change, there can’t be progress or growth