Riding the Waves of Uncertainty by Embracing the ‘A’nchors of Change
22 Nov, 2023Associate Partner, Tutul Consulting
Krishnan Vaidyanathan
“Imagine this: You're on a boat in the middle of a vast ocean. The weather changes unpredictably – sometimes calm, other times stormy. But you're always sailing.-navigating transitions, whether gentle ripples or turbulent waves.”
The much-celebrated phrase "Change is the only constant" resonates deeply amidst this reflection, enveloping us in the realization that we’re all in a perpetual state of transition. It's not just about shifting roles or moving homes; it's about embracing life's kaleidoscope of experiences.
These changes evoke very strong defenses within us, driven by the inherent uncertainty that they bring and the fear of the unknown. We often try to measure the scale of these changes by complexity or speed, but truth be told, uncertainty doesn't come with a manual.
So amidst this flux, here are a few ‘A’nchors you can use to navigate the waves of change & uncertainty.
1. The first A is Awareness. It involves understanding the situation.
It means conversing with others or even reading up about it. Importantly it also means reflecting on how one is changing in these times and accepting it. Often, we hesitate to discuss change with others, but you'd be surprised how much we are unified in this ongoing journey of life.
2. Then there is a lot to be said about Affiliations. It's important to invest in creating new bonds and relationships in these new situations. These connections are not solely with people directly impacted by the change; they include emerging relationships. For instance, consider making friends with acquaintances of your recently retired parents! These connections greatly contribute to making the journey more meaningful.
3. As humans, we all need a sense of Achievement. Try setting small yet significant milestones that you can achieve during the initial months. For instance, committing to spending quality 2 hours every week with your teenage daughter could be one of them! These milestones also play a crucial role in confirming and establishing the change mindfully.
If you find yourself navigating these changes or supporting someone through them, coaching on all three aspects is pivotal. Much like sailing through uncertain waters, a compass or a sense of direction matters.
We're here as your trusted navigators, ready to assist you on this journey of change. Reach out to us here, and let's navigate these transitions together.