I made a big change a couple of months ago. I stepped out of my comfort zone firmly into a different life, which I’m now breaking-in like a new pair of running shoes. It’s not been comfortable and it’s going to take a while before I’ll be up to speed. My old existence was cozy, with its familiar routines and well-trodden paths. But I knew a change needed to be made in order for personal growth to happen. It was like ripping off a sticking plaster…
We say that often, and there’s an element of truth in it.
It’s challenging and uncomfortable. As human beings, we are wary of trying anything new. Our fear of failure leads to a level of apprehension so overwhelming that it can trigger us to fight, flight or freeze. It can actually make us sick. We like to think we’ll throw ourselves into new experiences, but in fact it’s like going over the top of a roller coaster and screaming all the way down the other side. It may be exhilarating but it’s also scary and exhausting.
The paradox is that we need change, and we often actively seek it. As human beings we are hard-wired to enjoy novelty. New stuff actually gives us a hit of dopamine (the brain’s ‘feel good’ chemical) when we experience it. That’s probably why we love shopping!
So what happens when we try to change and why do change initiatives often seem to fail?
This month’s issue of the Comms Exchange newsletter is dedicated to the big scary CHANGE word and investigates:
• What happens when we try to change and why do change initiatives often seem to fail?
• 10 practical tips for communication to reduce resistance to change.
At the end, I’ll also share some resources that I’ve found useful, in case you are curious to find out more.
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I hope you find it useful!
