6 Strategies For Navigating Change

Change is an inevitable part of life, yet it often stirs up a mix of emotions ranging from excitement to anxiety. For the past 14 years I’ve coached and consulted real estate agents through all different markets, and yet anyone following the news knows that one of the biggest changes to the industry is taking place right now. It’s left many of the agents feeling confused, stressed and overwhelmed.

In my coaching sessions we’re talking a lot about how to adopt a new way of doing business while continuing to grow and help your clients at the highest level.

Today I am taking what I’ve been sharing in those sessions and giving it to you so that if you’re in a season of change, whether personally or professionally, you have the tools you need to navigate it with ease.

The first question we have to answer is why do we struggle so much with change?

Change, by its very nature, disrupts the familiar. This disruption can cause feelings of fear and anxiety, primarily because it involves stepping into the unknown and relinquishing control. Typically it’s not the tangible thing that’s changing that’s causing us stress but rather:

1. Loss of Control: When situations change, we often feel a loss of control over our environment and outcomes, leading to discomfort and resistance.
2. Uncertainty: The unknown aspects of change can trigger stress and anxiety, as we may not know what to expect or how to handle new situations.
3. Disruption of Routine: Change can disturb our established routines and habits, causing a sense of instability.
4. Emotional Impact: Change can evoke a range of emotions, including fear, sadness, and even excitement. These emotional responses can be overwhelming and difficult to manage.

The trick to navigating change is to have a solid structure in place to help you embrace it. These 6 tips below will help you create a structure to work within during times of change.

1. Adopt a Positive Mindset: A positive mindset can transform your experience of change. Focus on the potential benefits and opportunities that change can bring, rather than dwelling on discomfort or drawbacks. By shifting your perspective, you can create a more constructive outlook and reduce feelings of resistance.
1. Actionable ways to adopt a positive mindset: 
1. Create a gratitude journal and write down, every day, things that you are grateful for. They can be small or large, business or personal, just take some time to reflect. 
2. Be mindful of who you talk to. The truth is not everyone is willing, or open, to embracing change. Some people will decide to wallow, complain and adopt a victim behavior - and that’s their choice! Your choice will be if you decide to be a part of those conversations. “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t - you’re right!” - Henry Ford. Make sure you are surrounded with the people who think they can navigate change!
2. Seek Support: You don't have to navigate change alone. Reach out to friends, family, colleagues, or mentors who can provide support and encouragement. Asking questions and seeking information can also help you understand the reasons behind the change, making it easier to embrace and adapt to new circumstances.
1. Actionable ways to seek support: 
1. Find a mentor: A mentor is someone who has gone through what you are going through and can give you a perspective and the tools necessary to grow through change
2. Hire a coach: A coach can help you set goals, create the strategy to work within and hold you accountable to doing what’s necessary to embrace, and even thrive in, change.
3. Stay Flexible: Flexibility is key to navigating change successfully. Be open-minded and willing to adapt to new situations. Embracing flexibility allows you to explore new paths and opportunities that may arise from change, fostering personal and professional growth.
1. Actionable ways to Stay Flexible:
1. Seeking first to understand: stay in curiosity about why things are changing and try to see the situation from all perspectives.
2. Practice affirmations: Creating affirmations in the present tense detailing what your life will look like after the change is a great way to manifest a positive outcome you’re excited for.
4. Invest in Lifelong Learning: Continuous learning equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in any environment, especially during times of change. Make a commitment to personal and professional development, and seek out opportunities to learn and grow. This proactive approach will enhance your resilience and adaptability.
1. REAL ESTATE RESOURCE: If you’re a real estate agent looking to navigate the changes to our industry check out the classes we are offering here!
5. Maintain a Routine: While change can disrupt your usual routine, establishing a new structure that aligns with your values and goals can provide stability. A consistent routine helps you stay focused and productive, even during transitional periods. It can also serve as an anchor, providing a sense of normalcy amid change.
1. REAL ESTATE RESOURCE: Your routine needs to match your goals and the strategies you’ve committed to. My Mid-Year Check-In workbook will walk you through where you are currently in your business and give you a playbook to stay on track to hit your 2024 goals.
6. Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial during times of change. Engage in activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies you enjoy. Prioritizing self-care helps you maintain energy and resilience, enabling you to cope more effectively with the demands of change.
1. FREE Resource: My Self-Care Worksheets that will help you develop a routine and healthy habits around self-care 

Remember, change is a constant in our ever-evolving world. Embrace it with resilience and an open mind, and you'll discover a world of opportunities waiting for you. Every change, whether initially perceived as positive or negative, holds the potential to help you grow and thrive. So, step into the unknown with confidence and curiosity, and let change lead you to new heights.

If you are a real estate professional feeling uncertain about the industry or your business right now I invite you to schedule a complementary one to one coaching consultation with me click here.