Change... The One Constant!

What is it that we in Community Management deal with more than anything else? CHANGE! We must be able to adapt and bend with everyday upheavals which can be good, bad or indifferent. How many times do you begin your day with an ambitious plan of action, only to find meetings cancelled, weather surprises, unanticipated calls to be made, and more? When this happens, we are left with a feeling of not accomplishing anything, only to get further behind in completing the tasks that were scheduled.

Because of the uncertainty of each day, we need to work on maintaining a positive attitude. Sometimes that is easier said than done, especially when working with negative situations. We need to understand that no day is the same and it is not always about me . Change happens and we need to adapt to change as a positive in dealing with clients and one's self. Negative reactions are self- imposed, which affect us through anger and conflict. It is helpful to recognize the reaction, talk about the reaction, and then move on by making the negative a positive - - thus succeeding in the task at hand.

With change, you may have stress. We need to acknowledge the feelings that come with change – awkwardness, self-consciousness and/or a sense of being ill at ease. Change does not always mean losing. Too much change at one time can be overwhelming. Taking gradual steps to solve each part, sorting through each component, and prioritizing are all helpful ways to cope. Get the easy tasks done first so you feel that you have accomplished a task. Gradually work to the top of the list.

Change is personal. Everyone has their own reaction to it, from denial and resistance to finding ways to incorporate and move forward. When change comes, take a deep breath, sit back and take your time. You will get through it and the result will include your positive influence toward progress.