The only constant is change and yet so many of us are fearful of it. Change can be uncomfortable, it can test our will, it can also be something we choose to ignore. If you’re fearful of change because you fear losing control, you’re not alone.

Just as when thinking too far into the future may cause me anxiety, the more I’ve ignored the fear of change, the more it overcomes my mind.

Perhaps you’ve had similar experiences.

Tony Fahkry provides three ways to overcome our fear of change that have been quite useful. 

1.     Examine the fear
2.     Reframe the fear
3.     Tame the fear

Embrace the changes that come into your life. As Michael Signer said, “I gain nothing by being bothered by life’s events.”

A few weeks back we spoke of Mind Full vs. Mindful. It depicted a human with so many thoughts in his thought bubble that there was no room for anything else. His dog on the other hand, his thought bubble was uncluttered, focused only on the present.

As the saying goes, thinking about the past can cause depression while thinking of the future can cause anxiety. Choose to live in the present. Afterall it’s called the present because it is just that, a present. Embrace and enjoy it.

Nick Wignall gives 5 Mantras for calming your anxious mind.

1.     “I am not my thoughts”
2.     “Just because it feels bad doesn’t mean it is bad”
3.     “Less but better”
4.     “In gentleness, strength”
5.     “Focus on the person, not the problem”

Realizing I’m not my thoughts has been the most powerful tool for me in dealing with my anxious mind. What’s yours?

Six easy ways to become more self-aware.

1.     Seek out new experiences.
2.     Ask people for feedback about yourself.
3.     Identify what triggers your negative emotions.
4.     Question your opinions and beliefs.
5.     Get clear on your core values
6.     Write in a journal.

“Journal writing, when it becomes a ritual for transformation, is not only life-changing but life-expanding.” – Jen Williamson

I’m still keeping up with journaling in The Untethered Soul daily journal and I can tell you I agree with Jen. Setting aside 5-10 minutes each morning, I can say the prompts from the journal are enlightening.

However, you can journal anyway you see fit. Practice with different methods, see what’s most beneficial for you.

How many of these have you practice, or are you practicing?

Fully revised and updated–the national bestselling communication skills guide that will help you achieve personal and professional success one conversation at a time.

The master teacher of positive change through powerful communication, Susan Scott wants you to succeed. To do that, she explains, you must transform everyday conversations at work and at home with effective ways to get your message across–and get what you want. In this guide, which includes a workbook and The Seven Principles of Fierce Conversations, Scott teaches you how to:

– Overcome barriers to meaningful communication
– Expand and enrich relationships with colleagues, friends, and family
– Increase clarity and improve understanding
– Handle strong emotions–on both sides of the table
– Connect with colleagues, customers and family at a deep level

Includes a Foreword by Ken Blanchard, the bestselling co-author of The One Minute Manager