The autumn season is a time of change. As summer ends and winter approaches, the leaves begin to change, the days get shorter, and the temperatures start to drop. But, these moments of change are often resisted by some. We want summer to last longer, to hold on to things as they are.
It’s important to remember that these moments of change make way for a new season, new opportunities, and new growth. “Change is a natural and constant part of life, especially in such a fast-paced world that we live in today. Not only everything around you changes, but you change as well. The problem is many of us will resist and reject it (thedailypositive.com).”
While the changing of the seasons is a type of change we cannot control, there are moments of change in our lives that we are reluctant of, and we resist or reject them - ending a relationship, changing our routine, letting someone go.
As the season of change approaches, Pathfinders Pastoral Care Ministries encourages you to seek and embrace the changes in your life that can move you forward. We are sharing three reasons why change matters and how it can make you a better person and a better Christian.
1. Change Helps Us Grow
Too often do we get “comfortable” – why rock the boat? Why fix it if it’s not broken? While not every aspect of your life needs to be adjusted, we all have areas that can be improved. Change helps us to grow as humans and provides us opportunities to improve our lives and relationships.
For example, maybe you’re an individual in a relationship (intimate or not) that makes you unhappy. You want to separate yourself but feelings of anxiety urge you to stop. These moments of change are scary but focus on the positive outcomes they can bring. While ending a relationship can be uncomfortable or “inconvenient,” maintaining mental and emotional wellness means putting yourself first.
2. Change Helps Us Learn
The older we get, the more experience we gain. That’s why many tend to predict the outcome of a situation before it plays out.
"If we break up, I’ll never meet someone else.”
“I can’t imagine life without ________.”
“By instinct, we know that a new way presents both possibilities and problems. But most would rather reject the possibilities if it also means avoiding the problems (inc.com).” Taking a leap and making a change may shift the status quo, but it can also help us learn. Learn what makes us happy, learn what matters to us, and learn what we are capable of – even when we think we aren’t.
“Daniel answered and said: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.” - Daniel 2:20-21
3. Change Makes Us Adaptable
“The more we deal with change, the more used to it we become, the easier it becomes to deal with it. Rigidity and resistance can cause unnecessary stress and blind us from the good that new situations, environments, and people can bring (thedailypositive.com).”
Change is unavoidable. But, being resilient to change is a skill that can positively impact your personal and professional life.
We know not all change can be strategic and planned. Unexpected changes happen every day. But, by learning to see the benefit of change, we let these moments make us stronger, not cause us fear.
At Pathfinders Pastoral Care Ministries, our Christian counseling services aim to guide you through your challenges and make positive changes that improve your relationship with God and with yourself.