Dealing With Change
Teenagers don't get enough credit for the amount of change they deal with between the ages of 12-18, but we appreciate this. But, how to deal with change effectively doesn't just happen, you have to learn it and often do this through experience. Here are three key points to help deal with change.
1. Be adaptable
Hey, are you usually in a particular classroom? Do you usually get to sit next to your friends? Do you get to do practical work in that class most of the time?
Sometimes things have to be changed. Remember that when this happens it is usually not something teachers or parents are just making up on the spot, there is often a good reason for it. Going along with these situations and adapting to them makes not only the people who are managing the situation life easier, but it will also help you in the long run. Adapting also trains your brain to problem solve and develops your resilience.
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Activity: Listen
When you are being told what changes are happening, actively listen. Things might change on the fly, so you need to adapt to that and just do what you are told, when you are told... even if it contradicts something you have heard before. And then listen to the people around you. Some people can't cope with change as easily as others and this is where your adaptability can come into play. Help them out by remaining calm, giving them the chance to come along with you and adapt together.
2. Be kind
This seems so simple, but we are asking you to actively be kind to those around you. Your teachers constantly deal with change, and sometimes it is tough on them. Acknowledging them and the work they're doing is sometimes all it takes to stop something from being a burden. Also, be kind to your peers. Life can be tough at times so make sure that you are being kind to all the kids at school, not just your friends.
Activity: Say
Say something kind to someone. Thank your teacher, tell them what a good job they're doing. Have a nice conversation with someone you are in class with that you don't usually speak to. Ask them how they are doing, share a little story of how you have been doing. Saying something kind takes very little effort but the reward is big to both the recipient of your kind words and to you and your sense of self worth.
3. Stay positive
Easier said than done we know, but remaining positive in times of change can help you weather the storm. We are not saying you have to be happy and seeing rainbows all the time but just bring yourself back to thinking about some of the good things that have happened as a result of change in your life. Maybe you have learnt something new? Maybe you have made new friends? Change always happens, finding some positives in it will help get you through.
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Activity: Do
Do something nice for yourself that will help you stay happy. We say it a lot, but exercise, enough sleep, catching up with friends and eating right all help you maintain a positive outlook. You could take it to the next level by doing something positive for someone else... do the chores at home (we promise this is not a parent sponsored post) or write a card to someone who is struggling with it all at the moment.
