Your life is in a constant state of fluctuation. For some people and in some situations change is exciting and invigorating, while for others it can be scary and difficult. Either way, change is inevitable. It is simply impossible for things to stay exactly the same throughout your entire life. Even if this were possible, who would want to stay stagnant forever? In what world is never growing, learning, or improving a first choice? Although in the moment, you may want to avoid change at all costs, it truly is what develops us into strong, independent people.
No matter what point in your life, change is up front and center for just about everyone. Whether you’re adjusting to college-level academics, making a whole new group of friends, or getting used to no longer living at home, we are all dealing with some sort of rearrangement in our life. Coming from someone who moved from Nebraska to Florida, went to college far from home, then decided to attend an entirely different school all within the last six months, change is bound to impact each of our lives but how we cope with it is the most important part.
When we are confronted with change, it is necessary to think of it as an opportunity to grow as a person. Change can always lead to something better, even if it doesn’t seem like it. For example, moving from my childhood home to a whole new state all the way across the country was daunting at first, but as the old saying goes, “When one door closes, another one opens.” It is crucial to never be afraid of what could be on the other side of that door. Be open to meeting new people, and trying new things. Face change with openness, and leave unease and distress behind you. Of course putting yourself out there and being bold can be difficult, but doing this can lead you to create opportunities for yourself and grow from these opportunities into the person you are meant to be. As you go through life, just like change, making mistakes is also inevitable. Instead of letting these mistakes discourage you, learn from them and further, apply this new wisdom to future experiences. When I began to attend college in Texas, just a few months into the semester I knew I made a mistake in choosing a school. Instead of viewing this as a failure, I saw it as a chance to redirect my path and start fresh. Each new opportunity will be less intimidating if you look back on past mistakes and realize that you not only came through on the other side, but came through as a wiser, more improved you. Change can cause many of us to assume the worst, but thinking positively can impact the entire situation. If you think optimistically, success will come more efficiently because you are expecting things to turn out for the better. I knew when I decided to transfer schools that it wouldn’t be an easy process, but I kept in mind that I would be much happier after it was all over. My positive thinking allowed for this situation to be much easier to go through.
The next time you come face to face with change (because trust me, it will happen) don’t be shy. Make the most of every opportunity it brings your way, and view each mistake you make (because trust me, you’ll make them) as a learning experience. Stay positive throughout periods of uncertainty and don’t let yourself miss out on all of the great things life has in store for you. Be bold, and embrace change in your life, because who wants to stay the same forever?
