Change is good, but honestly I have had enough change for a while, I’d like stability. That being said, I have recently spoken to several friends that are undertaking change, either by choice, or as a result of a change someone else has imposed. Reactions are as expected, mixed; change is exciting but it can also be very intimidating.

I can see the shift in their eyes. The prospect of new beginnings can be harrowing. The best way to approach it, in my opinion, is to ride the wave. If you are the initiator of the change, it is a little easier. After all something spurred you to take the steps to explore new opportunities, going full steam ahead and engaging in the unknown. Others have had to accept change due to someone else’s decision. Either way, it can be a gift; how you handle it can make the difference in the outcome.

I look back at all the changes I have made over the last while and the domino effect brought me to where I am now, who knows, more change could be afoot. When one person or group makes a change, cause and effect means other changes can happen. Gaps are left, new avenues can be explored, fresh opportunities unearthed and your adventure can begin.

For my friends that feel the trepidation of the unknown, I hope they realize that in the end, it could be a good thing. Take baby steps. You don’t have to tackle it all at once, slowly get used to your new landscape and don’t feel pushed. Write down how you feel. You don’t have to share it if you don’t want to, it can be your personal thoughts. Writing is cathartic.

If you are going to make a change that is going to affect someone else adversely, maybe let them know. There is nothing worse than being blindsided by someone else’s decision. If you are dealt a new path because of someone else’s decision, don’t let yourself feel like a victim. It deflates self-esteem. Instead keep your head high and you’re likely to see something that may be even better.

I wouldn’t advise my friends to follow my path and make the drastic changes I made like moving two hours away, taking a new job, selling my house and renting for the first time in my life; but then again my changes were brought about by a domino effect, and my decision to take this leap of faith did not affect many people. Sure I miss my family and friends but we keep in touch and I still visit and a few have made the trek to see me.

So when the dominoes are in motion and the inevitable shift takes place, smile and breathe; a new beginning is upon you. Make the most of it.