3 Essential Qualities for Navigating Great Change

The pandemic has thrown us into unknown territory individually and collectively with an uncertain future ahead of us.  Some of my clients are thriving in spite of the great changes.  Some are struggling with fear, anxiety, depression, a short fuse, and lack of clarity about the next steps to take.  Whether you’re in the former or the latter category, here are three essential qualities for navigating times of great change – perspective, courage and flexibility.

Perspective

“…What happens is of little significance compared with the stories we tell ourselves about what happens.” ― Rabih Alameddine, The Hakawati

Perspective creates a filter for the way we see something and defines how we react to a specific situation.  For example, if we see the impact of the current pandemic as a hopeless situation, we will tell ourselves stories that build a case to verify that as a truth.  Then it’s unlikely we’ll see any creative solutions or actions for creating positive change.  If we see the pandemic as an opportunity for growth and transformation, we will be less anxious and more open to creative solutions for change.  The first step is to name the perspective.  What is your perspective on your current situation?  Is that serving you?  If not, brainstorm additional perspectives and consciously choose one that is inspiring and generates the energy for creativity and action towards the outcomes you want.

Courage

Courage is strength in the face of pain or grief.  It is a quality of spirit, heart and conduct.  To be courageous in the face of fear and challenging circumstances, it helps to be clear about what you value most in life and what you stand for.  What gives you the courage to keep going even if it’s one step at a time, one day at a time?  Make yourself a list of what you can’t live without and that you are willing to fight for.  Examples are family, health, integrity, beauty –  identify your top 10.  This will help you keep moving forward in the face of fear.

Flexibility 

Flexibility is the ability to change or to bend easily without breaking, like bamboo.  As things change, the landscape of our life and work can change with it requiring us to let go of old ways of doing and thinking.  Flexibility is the ability to stretch ourselves, learn, yield to forces beyond our control and stay strong.  In what area of your life would benefit from being more flexible and adapting to change?

And through it all, self-care, self-care, self-care to cultivate resilience, as it’s only in a resilient place that we are present and able to respond creatively to what life throws at us.

Sabrina Roblin, CPCC has been a professional coach, mentor, and trainer since 2004.  She has worked successfully with individuals both independently and inside organizations in manifesting their goals and dreams, and in creating a meaningful next chapter in their lives.  Contact her for more information and a complimentary coaching session.