The Universal Law of Permanent Change
07/05/2022Self-Esteem and Change Management
19/05/2022 The Psychology of Change
The perception and interpretation of reality
Our minds often create unnecessary obstacles when faced with change. When a change occurs, our minds perceive it and interpret it. These perceptions and interpretations significantly influence our reactions.
If we perceive a change positively, as a potential gain, a beneficial challenge, or an opportunity for growth, we tend to respond with acceptance and flexibility. This positive outlook facilitates a smoother adaptation process.
However, if we perceive a change negatively, as a threat, a loss, or a source of potential suffering, our reaction tends to be rigid and defensive. This resistance to change can complicate the adaptation process.
We’ve all witnessed resistance to change, especially in corporate settings and work teams. This resistance is becoming increasingly common as changes become larger and more frequent. As a result, the demand for flexibility and adaptability has grown significantly in recent years. To thrive in today’s fast-paced world, individuals must be more flexible and adaptable than ever before.
There are many factors that influence how our mind perceives a change. There are both internal and external factors. The most important external factors are the environment, level of participation and amount of information.
As for the environment, the comments of others, television and radio news, newspapers, social media influence how we interpret reality.
The level of participation that we have in the processes of change also greatly influences our perception, especially in the work context. If we are being involved in what is happening, if we are involved in the changes that the company is making, we will most often have a different - and more positive - perception than if we are simply receiving an email informing us of a change that has already been decided and implemented.
In the same way, the better informed we are about changes that affect us, the greater the probability that we will assume a flexible and positive attitude that favors adaptation.
The internal factors that can influence our perception of change are above all, our beliefs, experiences and self-esteem.
Our beliefs and values significantly shape our perception of reality. If a change aligns with our values, we tend to perceive it positively. Conversely, if a change conflicts with our core values, our perception becomes negative, and our reaction may be one of resistance.
Past experiences can also influence us. It may be that what is happening is very similar to something we have experienced in the past. Therefore, the past can influence (and often distort) our perception of the present.
However, unlike other living beings, humans possess a unique ability: the power of choice. We can consciously decide, 'I don't like this change' or 'I don't want to adapt to this change.' This isn't necessarily unproductive resistance; it can be a courageous and deliberate stance, particularly when we are asked to adapt to a change that would compromise our core values.
But the factor that more than any other influences how our mind interprets reality and how we handle change in general, is our
self-esteem, our inner security, the confidence we have in ourselves. We will analyze this in the next blog.
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