Too many changes at once? Here are three change management strategies to fight change fatigue at work and in life by simply shifting your focus to the possibility that change can create—and controlling what you can.
As a part of the one-size-fits-you Momentum Customization process I provide for my clients, I always ask clients to share the types of changes they are experiencing right now. What has become apparent is that teams are not just struggling with change. It’s the volume of changes – and often all at ONCE – that are creating change fatigue.
The last three organizations I worked with provided me with a list of all of the changes they are implementing right now. Each organization shared not just one transformational change taking place, but many different changes happening, from reorgs and restructuring to automating outdated processes, and more.
When the tallies were done, their lists on current changes were over 20 items long!
Talk about overwhelming!
Enter change fatigue, the term describing a general sense of apathy or resignation toward organizations and life when too many changes are happening at once (or in short order).
This relentless cycle of constant change initiatives leads to resistance to the change, overwhelm, burnout, frustration, a lack of focus, and disengagement.
Change fatigue is real.
If you’re on a team or in a leadership position, you’re likely managing several kinds of change —personal and professional—simultaneously.
- How are you navigating each change as it comes down the pipe?
- How do you find solid ground when it seems like it’s constantly shifting?
- How can you sustain and grow Unstoppable Momentum when it feels like Overwhelm and Uncertainty are in overdrive?
Today’s article answers all three questions with a single answer: We adapt in real-time, one choice at a time.
Changing Our Change Management Strategies
The old way of change management for leaders no longer applies in this world where change is happening at breakneck speed. Adaptability and resilience are no longer “nice to have” leadership skills but are required—and required in real-time.
The first thing I remind the leaders I work with is that change management is a choice, particularly in where we choose to focus. We can focus on what we should be feeling—or what we are feeling. We can focus on the negative—or the positive. We can focus on what we can control—or focus on fighting things that are beyond it.
Change Management Tip #1: Focus on How You (Really) Feel
One of the best things you can do during times of extreme change is to create an acute self-awareness of where you (and your emotions) are now. This awareness is neutral. There is no judgment. There are no “shoulds” (as in, “I should be excited about this” or “I should be over this frustration by now”). It’s time to normalize feeling all that you need to during change.
In this space, be real and be honest with yourself. You are allowed to feel afraid, frustrated, lonely, or anxious. Or grateful, hopeful, or excited. You are allowed to feel something different—or all of those feelings all at once! Stop and give yourself the space, grace, and permission to feel what you need to feel. Be where you need to be.
FREE DOWNLOAD! If you aren’t sure where to start with your emotional self-awareness journey, download my free “You Are Allowed” card. Here’s why you should give it a try: This simple but powerful tool offers you two sides to your emotional journey during change, challenge, and uncertainty and allows you the grace and permission to be exactly where you need to be.
Change Management Tip #2: Focus on the Good.
Humans are naturally wired to focus on the negative. Data says we have 50,000 to 70,000 thoughts running through our minds daily. When something pops up in your day, where does your mind go? Does it tend to leap toward all that could go wrong—or what would happen if it all goes right?
Unless you’ve done some serious work here, I’m going to venture a guess that you’re in Camp Worst Case Scenario, often focusing on the bad, worst case and on what we have lost instead of what we could gain, of focusing on the challenge of the change instead of the opportunity it could create.
We live in a rapidly changing world that never slows down—which means we’re constantly firing off all the ways change is bad and how things can go wrong. But it’s important to understand and accept the role we play in the universe and our own lives. When a challenge inevitably cramps your style, challenge yourself to consider the positives that may come from the situation.
Remember, we can’t control change, but we can control our focus. We may not be able to control all of the challenges and changes around us, but we have the power to control our evolution within them. Instead of focusing on the negative, shift and focus on the good. Ask yourself, “What are the positive aspects of this change? What can I do now that I couldn’t before? What’s the best that can happen? ”
Change Management Tip #3: Focus on What’s Now—and What’s Next.
One of the biggest hurdles to managing change is letting go of the past, whether it was a previous leadership style, a retired tech stack, or an outdated process. We tend to cling to what’s familiar, often because we are wired for certainty, and may fear the unknown, even if it slows us down or gets in the way of what we truly want.
Here’s where I encourage the leaders, teams, and audiences I work with to have a Momentum Mindset. This is an intentional attitude, perspective, and thought process that supercharges continuous and accelerated improvement, resilience, and adaptability. It’s a growth mindset on jet fuel.
It fuels the possibility and practice of bouncing forward stronger and better than ever, no matter what you face. Real life is never 100% certain or completely black or white. A Momentum Mindset allows you to thrive in the gray.
A Momentum Mindset also encourages us to think differently by reframing our mindset, staying open to growth and possibilities, and shifting away from what we can’t control. Instead of allowing change to sap away your energy and feelings of control, let it fuel you to stay open to the possibilities you don’t see YET. Ask yourself:
- What action can I take right now to increase my confidence and control with this change?
- What resources are available to me to make the most of this change?
- What are some ways this change could move me toward the outcomes I want?
By changing where we focus our attention and efforts, we can prove resilient in times of constant change. This is where I tell people, “Grit up, don’t give up”—because they are stronger than the changes coming their way.
Occasional Overwhelm Is Normal—And So Is Unstoppable Momentum.
It’s easy (and normal!) to feel overwhelmed and exhausted in the face of constant change. Yet, as we’ve explored, there are powerful ways to combat change fatigue and regain control over your life at work—and at home. By focusing on your real emotions, emphasizing the good, and adopting a Momentum Mindset, you can navigate the turbulence of change with resilience and positivity.
Remember, change is inevitable, but how you respond to it is a choice. By shifting your focus and embracing a proactive approach, you not only manage change more effectively but also emerge stronger and more adaptable. You become a driver of change instead of a passenger. As you face each new challenge, take a moment to center yourself, seek out the positives, and take deliberate action.
Change is not just something to endure—it’s an opportunity for growth and transformation. So, feel what you need to, grit up, embrace the journey, and know that you have the tools and mindset to thrive amidst the chaos. You are stronger than the changes coming your way, and with each step you take, you’re building a future filled with unlimited possibility, growth, and Unstoppable Momentum.
Repeat after me:
I embrace what is now and what is next.
Because there is no “normal” or new normal.”
Change and uncertainty are inevitable.
Challenges are guaranteed.
And so is my growth—when I choose it.
I choose to focus on what I can control
I choose to find the opportunities
I choose to thrive in the Unknown.
With every change and challenge,
I own my chances and my choices.
I fuel my focus and my fire.
And I ignite Unstoppable Momentum
Want this as your daily affirmation? Download this Unstoppable Manifesto here.
Remember: You’ve got this, and you’ve got me! I’m here cheering you on every step of the way.
