Learn to cope better with changes at work

Being flexible - or the ability to deal with change - is a skill demanded in almost every job posting. The world is constantly changing; shouldn't it be a given that we are instinctively good at dealing with this? No, far from everyone is enthusiastic when faced with changes at work. Whether it's a new computer system, a reorganization, or the arrival of a new manager, change can evoke resistance. In this article we give you tips on how to deal with it better.

The impact of change at work

Research by the American Psychological Association shows that changes in the workplace often lead to stress. This stress can reduce job satisfaction and worsen contact with colleagues and supervisors. This is partly due to our brain structure, which prefers comfort and routine to the unknown. Change requires energy and adaptability, and if the rewards are not immediately apparent, it can lead to demotivation.

This is why it is important for employees to know why the change is happening. It provides context and can reduce the negative impact of the change. Try to get clarity on the goals and expected benefits, both on an individual and organizational level. You can do this by asking questions during meetings, reading memos or having conversations with managers. 

Fixed mindset vs. Growth mindset

An important factor in how we deal with change at work is our mindset. Carol Dweck, an American psychologist, distinguishes two types of mindsets: the fixed mindset (entity thinkers) and the growth mindset (growth thinkers). People with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, while people with a fixed mindset often perceive change as threatening.

But have no fear, you can develop a growth mindset. Here are some steps you can take:

• View failure as a learning experience: Instead of viewing failure as a sign of lack of ability, people with a growth mindset view it as an opportunity to learn. When you learn from each misstep, you build resilience and improve your adaptability, making you better prepared for future challenges. Thus, you also begin to see changes at work as a learning opportunity.
• Value the process over the end result: Shift your focus from achieving immediate successes to appreciating the effort and growth that takes place during the process. Valuing the process helps you develop patience and perseverance. It also helps reduce the pressure of perfectionism and makes it easier to stay motivated even when results are not immediately apparent.
• Keep learning and developing: A lifelong commitment to learning keeps your mind flexible and open to new ideas and approaches. By acquiring new knowledge and skills, you increase your ability to deal effectively with change at work. This not only through the practical skills you gain, but also by developing a mindset that recognizes that growth is always possible, regardless of age or the challenges you face.

TIP: Want to gain insight into your own growth mindset thoughts? Follow the scan 'Growth Mindset' within the online learning platform. Here you will gain insight into your growth mindset thoughts and into what the most important fixed triggers are for you. You will also immediately receive a useful step-by-step plan to go from a fixed to a growth mindset.

Openness and flexibility

Personality also plays a role in how we respond to changes at work. People who score high on "openness" tend to be more willing to take on new experiences. They are better able to handle the chaos that sometimes accompanies change. On the other hand, people who place a high value on structure and order may struggle more with the uncertainty that change brings.

If changes are difficult for you because you value structure and order, it may help to break down these challenges into smaller, manageable pieces. Find ways to make adjustments step by step, rather than throwing everything over at once. This can ease the transition and increase your sense of control. Creating a clear action plan, with concrete steps and goals, can help navigate the change at work. It is also helpful to identify the benefits and opportunities the change may bring. Make a list of possible positive outcomes and use them as motivation.

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Dealing with
change at work is an inevitable part of modern work life.
But, by understanding why change happens, adopting a growth mindset
adopt and being open to new experiences, you can meet these challenges
cope. The right tools are going to help you tremendously with this. On SkillsTown's online
learning platform of SkillsTown you will find 1000+ online trainings to develop yourself, including
trainings aimed at developing a growth mindset and a
flexible attitude.

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