Overcoming the fear of Change.
It is as it always has been. Just as Adam said to Eve as they were leaving the Garden, “Don’t worry Dear, we are just going through a period of transition.” Seriously, life is all about change. To be alive is to change. The one thing you can count on between today and tomorrow something will change. To fear change is to fear life.
Paul tells us love casts out fear. It’s a faith issue. Do we really believe in the power of God’s love? Another word for faith is trust. If we trust God there is no need to fear change. So the answer to the fear of change or any fear is faith in God.
Too bad it just isn’t as easy as accepting such a logical argument. That lack of trust in the world around us, the need to hold on to the status quo for security, usually stems from deep issues of failed trust in childhood. It’s not rational so rational cures won’t usually help. Speak with a pastor, counselor or trusted friend if you think you need more serious help.
However, let’s say this fear isn’t debilitating. You don’t like change, but it hasn’t gotten you fired, cost you a marriage or a long time friendship. If your fear, though irrational, is manageable there are some positive things you can do to decrease the anxiety. Perhaps you have some “tapes” that run through your head that reinforce the fear. The sky is falling. The other shoe is about to drop. The good old days are gone for good. You can choose to pray scripture until they replace those negative tapes.
All things work together for good for those who love the Lord.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
You can use the ancient Christian breath prayer. Jesus Christ, Son of God Savior, have mercy on me a sinner.
You could make up your own personalized affirmation. Change is an opportunity for creativity.
Journaling or keeping some kind of daily diary can also be helpful. Try keeping a log of every change. Once a week, or once a month read it over. Give each change a grade or a plus or minus. The act of evaluating changes in your present and recent past will reduce the anxiety. The list could be long; the longer the better. It demonstrates all the changes you have successfully navigated.
Another piece of advice comes from Jordan Peterson. He explains this on several of his podcasts. The thing thar works the best nis ton voluntarily confront the which frightens you. Perhaps you can at first only confront it from a distance. The best part is you don’t get less afraid. Instead you get braver! Moreover, he explains you create new physical pathways in your body that hep you be braver about everything.
In time change may come to seem an opportunity for growth and adventure.
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