This has been a year of transitions, and it can feel overwhelming when we experience a number of changes all at once. Here are a few tips to help you live (and thrive) through change.
Take stock of change
While it may feel overwhelming, taking stock of the changes we are experiencing or making can help us process them. Grab a blank sheet of paper or use an app to create four columns:
Column 1: Changes
Write down the changes you’re currently experiencing or making in your life. This could include things like remote classes, moving or changing your major. Write each change down on a separate line.
Column 2: Feelings
How do these changes make you feel? Write down all of the feelings you have for each change in column 2. Remember, it’s possible to experience positive and negative emotions at the same time. Try not to judge what emotions come up for you.
Column 3: Behaviors
Once you’ve identified your feelings, consider how your behavior has been affected by these changes. For instance, you may find yourself going for walks more often to get outside or staring blankly at your screen because you’re feeling Zoomed out. Write down all the ways your behaviors or habits have changed in column 3.
Column 4: Positives
Finally, consider the positive aspects of these changes. This can be tricky, but looking on the bright side can help improve your mood and move forward with change in a positive way. For instance, being remote may mean that you get to spend more time with your pets or perhaps you can sleep in longer. Add all the positives, big and small.
Once you’ve completed your columns, look at what you have written. Do you notice any patterns or themes? Consider adding an additional column to brainstorm self-care activities you can practice to help you cope with each change.
Develop a growth mindset
Our mindset is informed by attitudes and opinions that shape how we see, interact and think about the world around us. Mindsets are often split into two categories: fixed and growth.
Fixed mindset
People with fixed mindsets tend to believe that their qualities are fixed and there is little room for change or improvement. They may also focus on areas that allow them to use their innate talents and intelligence to succeed, while avoiding subjects that require substantial effort, new skills or that may result in mistakes or failure.Ěý
Growth mindset
People with a growth mindset tend to believe that they can improve their intelligence and talents through time, experience and learning. They are more likely to accept challenges, see mistakes as learning opportunities and welcome feedback, both positive and negative.
These mindsets exist along a continuum, and it’s normal to experience both in different areas of your life. If you’re curious about where you fall, check out this mindset continuum worksheet.
Moving toward a growth mindset
Did you know you can change your mindset? It’s true! People with fixed mindsets can work to develop a growth mindset. Here are a few ways you can move toward a growth mindset:
Connect with resources
Whether you have a fixed or growth mindset, change can still be a challenging experience. Remember that it’s okay to ask for support and use campus resources.
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Content for this article was provided by Mike Murray, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Strategic Initiatives in CU Boulder’s Department of Human Resources.