Embracing change...This is a sore subject for some, and for others, an exciting one. No one likes to talk about it for fear of how people will react. When it comes to change, there are two ways people tend to react. For some, it’s new and exciting. It creates motivation. But for others, it’s scary, it’s unknown, and can be the center of their frustration and despair.

Do you ever feel like people are constantly trying to mess up your routine? Or they’re always asking you to try something different? For those of you who do, you’re probably comfortable where you are. You might have the outlook of, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” You like the way things are, and you don’t want it to change. With change comes the possibility of failure and navigating through the unknown. You hear about a change, and a red flag goes up in your brain and says, “STOP!” So that’s what you do.

But is it possible that rejecting change could be keeping you from becoming even better? Could it be keeping you from greater efficiency? Could it be keeping you from achieving your goals?

 George Bernard Shaw once said, “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” Change could be easily defined as “converting to something else.” It could be a new procedure, a new reporting structure, a new software or system, or even a change in personnel. And yes, it’s scary. But in the end, change ultimately makes things better. Things probably changed over and over again just to get where they are today. And with new technology and new generations entering the workforce, they’re going to continue to change. But it doesn’t have to be hard.

Here are a few tips to help you personally learn to embrace change:

• Believe in yourself. Yes, it’s scary, but you can do it. Think of all the things you have overcome so far in your life. Will a change in software really be the thing that does you in? Believe you can, and you will. In the end, you’ll be more confident and ready for the next challenge.

• Create small wins. Sometimes, breaking down a change into smaller portions can be much easier to swallow. After all, we don’t eat a whole pizza in one bite. We eat it slice by slice. Set smaller goals for yourself to help you with the change. If it’s a new procedure, focus on mastering one step at a time until you become the expert. If there are new people on your team, set a goal of learning one new thing about someone each day.

• Encourage others to join you. Remember, we are all in this together. There will always be changes. Encouraging others on your team to change with you can help you hold yourself accountable…and give you a support system when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

• Celebrate. For every small win, celebrate. With every person that joins you in embracing change, celebrate. For every goal completed, celebrate. You’ll be surprised at the motivation this can create.

 So the next time your brain tells you something is different, try looking at it from another perspective. Maybe you don’t have to stop. Maybe you can proceed with caution. Our minds crave novelty and growth, and if you don't start embracing change, progress will never be possible.