October 18, 2018

You've probably heard the saying "the only constant is change." Our lives are constantly transforming, from joining a new organization, graduating from college, moving to a new home or starting a new job. Change is exciting but also can be terrifying at the same time. 

Leadership in Action is sharing four ways to help you adapt to new change in your life.

From moving, graduating or getting a new job, below are some tips to help you adapt to your new environment without feeling overwhelmed or isolated.

Graduating:

  • Accept that you can't control everything. After graduation, things might not have worked out exactly how you envisioned. You are in a great transition period in your life, so think of the positives and all of the possibilities that are out there, even if you did not land your dream job ... yet.
  • Be kind to yourself. Transitions can be tough, especially during your post-graduation life. If you have a rough day in which the adulthood thing can seem overwhelming, take time for self-care for yourself. Participate in an activity that makes you happy and can relieve some of that stress. Watch the LiA Lunch & Learn "Balancing Life: Self-Care and Burn Out" to learn ways to practice self-care.
  • Take action toward building your future. How can you start working toward your goals? What small, attainable steps can you take today? Taking action can be the best way to move forward during this transitional time.

Moving:

  • Explore your new city. Chase away the feeling of strangeness by walking around your new neighborhood. Find the local coffee shop, bookstore or park to learn about your new surroundings. You also can research the area before you move to feel more comfortable when the time comes. 
  • Meet new people. Introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Ask them to come to watch a movie or a TV show you all enjoy. You also can sign up for exercise classes at the local gym or join in the local young professionals' organization.
  • Try new things. A new place is a great opportunity to break your daily routine and try something you've been wanted to do. Take a yoga class; go hiking; join a book club at the library. Trying new things also will lead to meeting new people.

Changing or starting a new job:

  • Make your workspace your own. You can personalize your workspace on one of your first days so you feel more confident in your office and a little more at ease. There are so many unknowns at a new job and having something that is yours and familiar can help you adapt more quickly.
  • Get into your new routine. People are naturally drawn to routine and having one can boost your mental health. You might not know your work duties right off the bat, but you can still establish your routine -- when you get to work, when you take your lunch break, when you check your email, etc.
  • It's OK to be nervous. Remind yourself that being nervous is not only normal but helpful and keeps you focused and engaged. Tell yourself that some of your anxiety is being driven because you care about what you're doing.

If you or other Members of your Chapter are thinking about moving to a new city or state after graduation, take the time together to research the new areas.

You can find the average cost of living in the different areas and compare that your earning from your job. For example, in New York City, the average cost for an apartment with a roommate is $900 a month. Taking into consideration other monthly expenses such as utilities, groceries, internet, transportation, cell phone, debt pay off, etc. The total monthly cost of living is about $2,524.50. (Source: stefanieoconnell.com)

You can also reach out to local Phi Sigma Pi Alumni in the areas you are looking to move to. They can provide insider information about the area, places to live, the best place to get a cup of coffee or eat lunch. You can contact these Alumni through the National Alumni Association (NAA) or social media groups. A membership to the NAA also makes a great gift for your graduating seniors! To learn more about the NAA and it's benefits visit, phisigmapi.org/naa.


LiA logo

Take the Leadership in Action Challenge! Earn 2 LiA by completing this assessment of how well you deal with change.

Request the Leadership in Action Module, The Power Of Innovation- When It Comes To Change to learn more about adapting to change and how to create a change plan for yourself, Chapter or workplace.

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." - Maya Angelou