The fear of change is one of the most common fears out there. This fear of change is a fear of uncertainty. When things change, we are unsure of that is coming next, and often it is impossible to predict. We can wish, and hope and plan for something, but the reality is that life does not always adhere to our plans. Staying the same can be comfortable, and familiar. It can provide us with what we already know, as opposed to what we do not know. This function was recently discovered to be one of the brain’s five basic functions, the need for certainty. Uncertainty creates a fear response in our limbic system, which can send us into panic mode, preventing us from being able to focus on other things. However, change needs to occur for us to grow.
But how can we manage this fear of change to allow the growth to happen?
Here are a few tried and true methods for addressing that fear and facing it head on. One concept that experts have reinforced, is the concept of being the author of our life. If our life is a book, then the first chapter needs to end before the second chapter can start. Have you ever read a book that was just one, long chapter? It’s pretty unlikely. Reframing and looking at change as a necessity for new, potentially better things to happen can help change become less intimidating. The next part of authoring your life is looking at the story arcs, like a “choose your own adventure” book. When faced with a challenge (or change) you may have a variety of choices that are available to you. Focus on what you can control, and it will help you move forward. In conclusion, reframing challenges, failures, and changes as opportunities can help make them less fear inducing.
If you cannot figure it out on your own, there are professionals (like us) to help guide you. You are still strong and valuable if you ask for help.
Lastly, also check out our blog post on challenging your thinking or the one on problem solving.
References:
Razzetti, G. (2018, September 18). How to Overcome the Fear of Change. Retrieved from
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-adaptive-mind/201809/how-overcome-the-fear-change
Rock, D. (2009, October 25). A Hunger for Certainty. Retrieved from
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-brain-work/200910/hunger-certainty