Dealing with
            Change

(ARA)  Change is inevitable, and unfortunately, dealing with this reality isn't easy for everyone. However, those people who do adapt and embrace change are more likely to achieve their goals and dreams.

In order to help others lead a more meaningful life, several award-winning authors share insights on how to accept and cope with change. According to Jack Jonathan and Sheelagh Manheim, Ph.D., authors of Yes, You Can Find More Meaning In Your Life. and Jim Stowers, author of the soon-to-be-published Yes, You Can Reach Your Goals and Achieve Your Dreams, the desire to maintain the status quo causes some people to fight against change and the uncertainty it brings. Yet one of the great advantages of the human race is the ability to adapt and prepare for change.

"It's common to resist change," says Jonathan. "Staying with what's comfortable and familiar keeps us connected to our past. But we shouldn't lose sight of the exciting opportunities for growth and new experiences that change brings. Being open to new ideas is one important ingredient for living a meaningful life and achieving our goals."

Making a change is often a leap of faith -- a risk. The best method for achieving success with this inevitable change, according to Jonathan and Manheim, is to properly prepare for it. The following seven steps provide suggestions on ways to open your mind to change.

1. Collect facts about what is changing. How will making this change affect you? What is the ultimate outcome that will make you happiest?

2. Evaluate the risks. What can go wrong by making this change? How can you be negatively affected? What's the worst-case scenario?

3. Decide how you will deal with the risks. Once you've identified the risks, figure out a solution for each one.

4. Make a commitment to persevere. Consider writing down your commitment to change, such as a contract you are making with yourself. Keep it in a location where you will see it regularly to remind yourself.
 
5. Define the small steps that will help you reach your goal. View the change as a series of small steps instead of one large one. This attitude will help you achieve many milestones and will give you a positive attitude.

6.  Reevaluate the progress you have made. Be flexible along the way and make adjustments that you'll need to ensure success, and achieve your dreams.

7. Reward yourself for each accomplishment. Celebrate smaller milestones and keep track of the progress you've made.

While the constant ebb and flow of change may cause some people to feel anxious or uncertain, that those who adapt and prepare for change can use it as one of life's great motivators.

For more ideas on dealing with change and other ways to lead a more meaningful life, visit yesyoucanonline.info.