Using creativity to cope with change

Whether change arises from a choice we've made, or is forced upon us, it is stressful (if you don't believe me, check out this Wikipedia article). Then again, stress can be managed.  When you take on a rigorous exercise program, for example, that's stressful.  Yet, if you eat well, stretch well, and rest up, the stress you put on your body will actually be beneficial. The way you handle the stress makes a big difference.

The mental version of eating well and resting up is using creativity to manage change. Even if an unwelcome change is forced on you, if you know that there is a defined path to follow, and even better, a path that is pre-programmed in the human brain, you will not be overwhelmed by change-related stress.  You may even learn to see change as a fresh chance to get more out of the talents you were born with.

When faced with an unwelcome change, take a deep breath, accept just a little consolation, and then prepare to ride the wind:

1. Frame the change as a creative challenge: e.g., go from, "X just ended" to "what next?"

2. Mull things over for as much time as you have.  Don't make any sudden decisions, because if you act too soon you will still be locked in past patterns of thought. Widen your perspective. Let your imagination roam free. Capture any insights or ideas that arise without judging them, and discuss your ideas with people you trust.

3. Define an "insightful challenge". Sketch out what challenges you, your insights about the challenge, and what motivates you to move forward. Try to narrow it down to a simple sentence: Based on insight X, I choose to do Y, motivated by Z.

4. Mull over your challenge, applying your expertise and that of others you trust.  What resources will you need? How can you overcome obstacles?

5. Make a plan--don't just dive in, get organized. That way, you can see your progress and identify potential problems. If problems arise, get creative and solve them!  Don't give up.

For help in managing change, please see my book, Actively Creative: A Guided Process.  It's short, practical, and rooted in real-world experience.  I wish you all the best!