Navigating change and adversity

“Embrace change” is a useless platitude mouthed by managers or motivational speakers who have not thought through its full implications—or they are masochists who enjoy suffering. Changes that bring new opportunities or propel us forward are easy to embrace. But many changes look quite negative and are tough—if not impossible—to welcome. This list might include loss of a relationship, a loved one, health, job, money, and such.

We often don’t choose the difficulties or negative changes that spring upon us. But we always choose how we respond.