When something works, it is natural to continue to want to do it.
However the reality of life is that we have to be open to change, and if we aren’t, change happens without us.
Many people have been let go from their jobs not because of performance but because of the economy. There is a lot of anxiety right now about what the future holds. This is common in every election year.
When I feel anxiety I learned from my doctor to breath slowly and focus on my breath. This is how I have fallen asleep at night if I felt any anxiety as well. Although that rarely happens for me.
It is ok and natural to be anxious. We do have to acknowledge those feelings and then work to find a way to address our fears. Each time I feel anxious I ask myself why I feel that way, and if there is something I can do to mitigate those fears.
For example, I felt anxious in the past not having a job or having a job where I wasn’t getting enough hours. As a consultant sometimes you don’t get a full 40 hours a week. So then I ask myself, is there anything I can do for the client that would benefit them that they haven’t considered? When I have written white papers, or made suggestions often they appreciate those suggestions and ask me to do them. There are always opportunities, it just takes some effort to find them.
Other times I felt anxious about things I could not change. I am anxious that the United States continues to be a force for social change in the world. However I alone can’t fix this. I can vote, and I can support candidates who I believe will help people but ultimately this direction is not mine to make. At times we have to do our part and then let go. We can’t force the world to confirm to our view of it. Those who try just end up making most of their citizens suffer.
If you feel anxious and have to change and find it difficult, talking to a therapist is so helpful. If you have friends who can do this great. Most importantly realize that all of us need to change, and sometimes that is challenging and not comfortable. However the tough times help shape us, and help us to be more compassionate to people who suffer and also face tough times. Don’t feel bad because you suffer. Feel bad if you must, for people who suffer and who don’t want to change. Theirs is a hell on earth.