We live in a dynamic world where change takes place constantly. As Mother Earth moves round the Sun from sunrise to sunset and morning to evening, we also move through different types of changes during that period. These changes seem to be of routine nature most of the time, but sometimes changes are unexpected and very surprising.
Yes, in our long journey of life, from childhood to old age, we experience changes of many kinds – from hormonal to emotional, social, financial, educational, professional, technological and many others. Undeniably, it is a big challenge for everybody to register positive growth consistently in life while passing through so many changes. It is because on the one hand the changes – mostly unknown, bring with it a sense of uncertainty and apprehension, but on the other hand it brings with it a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm about the unknown and unseen realities. Anyway, one thing is clear and interesting that most of the times the change in our life provides us an opportunity and sometimes compels us as well to shed inertia and come out of our comfort zone. That’s why wise people assert that change begins at the end of our comfort zone. So, in every way this is good for our wellbeing and growth in life. After all, who doesn’t want to grow well by adopting change for the better?
The idea of effecting positive change in your personality first and then trying to change others or to say, change yourself first before trying to change others, is worth practicing. But what’s the normal practice? Leo Tolstoy opines that everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself. Generally speaking, many people expect a hundred percent change in others, but they themselves seem to follow the principle of inertia in this matter. It is also observed that some people are very prompt in effecting change in their dress, style and lookout, but are rarely found to be inclined or interested to change their bad behaviour, unhealthy thoughts and negative attitude. Ironically, some of them even show their disagreement and opposition to change. This is nothing but sheer foolishness which impacts them badly not once but continuously in particular and their friends and relatives in general.
Interestingly, the wise people not only welcome the change in life but also embrace them joyfully as a friend. Instead of treating the change as a burden, they treat it as another opportunity to improve for positive development.
Since change is a permanent process, first we have to change our perspective towards the change. Charlie Chaplin says that nothing is permanent in this world, not even our troubles. If you look around, you will find how correct the view of Charlie Chaplin is. Not convinced? Alright. Just look back and go through the events of the last one week only. You will find that you have passed through a variety of small and big changes during this period. To say, you face changes daily, whether at home or in school-college-workplace and elsewhere. Some of these changes seem familiar or easy-to-manage and don’t bother you much. Yes, a few of them may seem new or big or difficult or unfamiliar that pose an uneasy or a bit stressful situation. But it is equally true that where there is a difficulty, there is definitely a way out available and through your knowledge, skill, experience, wisdom and above all self-confidence, you have generally been finding a solution. It is also correct that when you find a solution to a change-related new problem, you get more satisfaction and happiness. Naturally, you feel very good. Isn’t it? So, why worry about facing change of any kind? Always, be confident to welcome the change with a smile.
Yes, in this world of change, it is good to proactively gather the related facts or information of the upcoming or prospective change and find out the positive aspects. Don’t take any change emotionally, take it professionally. Whenever you feel like seeking the guidance or advice of your parents, colleague, teacher, mentor or friend, do not hesitate at all.
Anyway,
it is observed that the people who are mentally flexible and not obstinate,
embrace the change and enjoy it well. Finally, please give a serious thought to
what the Nobel Prize Winner in Literature George Bernard Shaw said on this
matter. Shaw says that progress is impossible without change, and those
who cannot change their minds can’t change anything.
As always, I'm keen to know what you think on this subject. Hence, I request you to post your comments to share your valuable opinion. (hellomilansinha@gmail.com)
# Published in my Sunday Column of "Morning India" daily.
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