Working With Change

by: Maureen Tazzioli

"Things do not change: we change." - Henry David Thoreau

Have you ever been in a situation where you tried to figure out what happened? What changed? What series of events took place that resulted in such a different outcome from what you first imagined? Well, I have, and what I discovered was even more surprising.

I used to be the kind of person who truly believed that I could change others. Silly, I know. but it is true. Some how I used to think that if I was happy and enthusiastic about life, then those who felt overwhelmed and frustrated would some how, 'pick up' on my positive energy and would want to change for the better. This was really naive of me - how could I motivate someone else who does not wish to be motivated.

See, I have learned throughout the years that the only person who can motivate an individual into action, is the individual herself. All, anyone can really do, is to provide the environment and the positive options available to improve a particular situation, so that the individual can see the choices available. That's it. The final decision to act upon any positive option, has to come from the individual themselves.

Then there was the situation where I was granted an opportunity to partake in a corporate training program, where I found myself studying hard trying to learn all that I needed, so in turn I could share this knowledge with my fellow co-workers. Problem: The more new information I had to learn, the more frustrated I became, the more frustrated I became the more overwhelmed I felt.

See, I knew that I was not the perfect fit for the position, however, I was the only one that management felt could do it...So, I gave it my best try, but it just was not good enough. I had to change the way I looked at the situation so as to work through it and I accept the reality that I required additional assistance from someone better knowledged in this area than myself. Once I acknowledged what changes needed to take place to move forward, the transformation process went smoothly.

Whether it is a situation of a personal nature or a situation at work, it is very important to remember that things do not just naturally change. Our approach, our insights, our courage and our willingness to look for better, more suitable solutions, are the things that assist us in changing our direction.

Change is a continual process, one in which to celebrate and accept. Grab hold of all those things you wish to change for the better. Start creating your own list of things you want to change in your life. Supporting each other during times of change is important, for when we all learn and work hard to improve our situations, then we can all move forward in life...working together through change can be a gift...don't be afraid to open your gift by accepting change in your life.

Posted in: Change