Dealing with Change - What You Should Know

Commentary by Lt. Col. Mark Hubner

Large numbers of military members will be sent across the world into unfamiliar places and situations when they deploy in the next few months. Civilian employees and military supervisors across the base will face similar treks into new territory with the vast changes brought about by the National Security Personnel System.

No matter who you are, the future will hold difficult changes that may take some time to work through. Though we often cannot control change, we can decide how we will deal with it as an individual.

Often adapting to these changes is easier when someone approaches it with a sense of optimism. Also, the more one can learn about the coming changes, the better. For example, research information on the new NSPS system, attend the training opportunities and ask questions.

If you are deploying, talk to those who have deployed before or read up on that part of the world's culture in which you soon will be immersed. No matter the change that will meet you in the new year, optimism and knowledge will give you the best chance possible to see new opportunities in the future.

Some people have described three stages of change.

First is the ending of what used to be. Whether good or bad, the old way was at least familiar to us.

Next comes the "middle ground." This is the place between the end of the old and the beginning of the new. In the middle ground people often compare what was to what will be. Understandably, it also is often accompanied by a sense of loss or even mourning.

While there may exist a desire or tendency to slow down and become passive, those who remain active and gather information during this stage are best prepared for what comes next.

The last stage is the new beginning. This is indeed a bit scary and can be difficult. However, it also can be a time of opportunity and growth. Some stretching, adjusting and even a little pain is common and to be expected. This is often where optimism separates those who transition well from those who don't.

Although there are many different strategies for dealing with change, the following are a few suggestions that can make the transition into to the new year not only easier, but maybe even rewarding:

- Take care of yourself (adequate sleep, good nutrition, exercise, limited alcohol, etc.)
- Stay active, get involved, passive people often miss out
- Stay connected with co-workers and with family
- Allow time to adjust to the new way
- Small consistent efforts to learn the new system will pay large dividends at later date - Remember to be limber and bend, don't be rigid and break
- If things get too stressful, get help. Some sources of help include friends, co-workers, supervisors, family members, ministers and medical/mental health providers.

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Source: U.S. Air Force

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