Dealing with Change – Text for reading comprehension

“Change is the only constant”, said a Greek philosopher Heraclitus. What does that mean and how can we successfully deal with it at work?

We all face changes everyday, whether it’s the weather, our schedule or project timelines, so the meaning of “Change is the only constant” means that change is the only thing that we’re sure will happen. So how can we best deal with changes at work that will help us decrease our stress and improve our productivity?

Change can be difficult for everyone, some more than others. But difficult doesn’t mean it’s bad. Here are some tips to help you more easily adapt to change in the workplace, whether it’s a change of priorities from your manager, new responsibilities, change in a project timeline or processes, or other sudden or planned change.

1.Accept the change and have a positive attitude. The change will happen so whether you accept it or not, it will not go away. The longer you resist the change, the harder you’ll make it on yourself. Accepting it with a positive attitude will go a long way in helping your colleagues or managers work with you in this new situation. Try to think of things you might like in the new role and how to use your strengths to increase your performance.

2.Focus on what you can control. There will be things you cannot control in the change but try to concentrate on your tasks and responsibilities you have control over. Break down large tasks into smaller ones. Make new goals for yourself so that you can put your energy towards achieving this goal instead of worrying about the change. Try sharing your new goals with your colleagues too as they’re surely having the same fears and stress and this might help them get more clarity and focus too.

3.Look at the big picture. After telling you to focus on what you can control, this next tip might seem to be the complete opposite! Yet, trying to understand what is going on and the reason for the change is important in helping you feel more confident. This might not always be possible, depending on your company culture, but what you can control is what you can get out of this change. So while working on your new tasks or way of working, remember to take time to look at your career goals and be open to ask for training to improve your skill set if necessary.

Change can be difficult to manage, but remember that no progress is made without change. So with the right mindset, you might even find new exciting opportunities open to you!