Blowing with the Winds of Change
As human beings, we all have a natural aversion to change, although we all respond differently to it. Some are able to adapt more easily than others. Change is a necessary and unavoidable part of life, so overcoming our objections to it is important. Getting motivated to make and accept change is all about overcoming what it is that is hindering us from going through the process of adapting to change. There are two factors that de-motivate people from accepting change. They are fear and antipathy. There are ways to overcome both of these factors and get motivated to accept and sometimes make changes that will be for our benefit. Let's take a look at both factors and how to overcome them.
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Overcoming Fear
Fear of the unknown is the number one factor that keeps people from being motivated to accept change. Fear of the unknown, fear of things not going right, or fear of more fear. Fear is a natural reaction when we don't know what is going to happen and how we can react to it. Get your motivation back by thinking about all the possible scenarios that could happen with the changes that are coming and figure out how you would react to each. For example, many people don't change the style of their clothing even though they know they look like they are a decade or two behind. One reason they don't change is because they are afraid the new style won't be as comfortable, won't look as good on them, or won't be around for long. Figure out what you would do in each of these situations and suddenly, you have no need to fear anymore. You have a plan of action and will be able to react to anything that comes your way. When fear is eliminated, confidence takes its place. When you are confident, you are motivated to make and accept changes.
Overcoming Antipathy
Antipathy to change, or an opposition, resistance, or even out-right hatred of change is not easily overcome. To get motivated to change when this occurs, you have to get to the root of your antipathy. The biggest reason people oppose change is that they think the it will cost them more personally than it will benefit them. One way to overcome antipathy to change and get motivated to make changes is to see them in a positive light. Sit down and actually measure out the costs and benefits. Do the costs really outweigh the benefits or is it the other way around? For example, many people hate to move. It causes disruptions in their lives, it means making new friends and being vulnerable, and it's a lot of work. All of those things can be viewed as costs, but interestingly enough, they can also be weighed as benefits. Sometimes a disruption in our lives can shake things up, get us out of our ruts and slumps, and put a fresh face on things. Making new friends does not have to be a painful experience. It can be a great one, especially if you can make life-long friends that will be apart of you wherever you live. As far as moving being a lot of work, it is worth it if the move means a better job, a better neighborhood, a better school for your kids, etc. You can find all sorts of benefits to change to help you view it in a positive light and get your motivation ball rolling again.
