Episode 36 | Managing Change at Work

Episode Introduction

In this episode, Niamh addresses a constant in the workplace: change. She provides a simple framework to help you gain clarity and take back control during times of change, whether it's a direct impact on you or a more indirect shift.

Episode Summary

A Simple Framework for Managing Change

Change is constant in the workplace, from new leadership and restructures to internal moves. It can feel like you're being pulled along by forces outside of your control. Niamh offers a simple framework to help you manage change, gain clarity, and feel more in control. She emphasises that change affects everyone differently, and it's okay if you feel more stressed or worried than others. Our personal circumstances all impact how we experience change.

Niamh recommends asking a series of questions to get a handle on the situation:

• What is changing? It's important to understand the specifics of the change and what is staying the same.
• Where in your life will it have an impact? Consider all areas of your life—financial, health, friendships—to understand the full scope of the change.
• When is it happening? Knowing the timeframe can help you manage your expectations.
• Who is leading or triggering the change? You will likely feel more comfortable with a change you initiated yourself versus one that was imposed on you.
• Why is this change happening? Thinking about the reasons behind the change and what's coming next can help you keep perspective.

Niamh also notes that you won't know everything, and your imagination can run wild with scenarios. It is crucial to focus on what you know for sure and then identify what you need to clarify. The final step is to talk to someone about it, whether that's a colleague or someone at home. Getting a different perspective can help you answer the questions and feel less alone.

• Change impacts everyone differently: It's okay to not feel the same way about a change as your colleagues.
• Clarify what you know: Ask questions to understand what is changing, when, and who is leading it to avoid letting your imagination run wild.
• Identify the next step: Once you know what you know, you can decide on a concrete next step to take back control.
• Talk it through: Talking to someone, or even journaling, can help you get a different perspective and relieve stress.

5 Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Don't compare your response to others: We all experience change differently based on our unique circumstances outside of work.

2. Understand the "Why": Asking why a change is happening can give you perspective and help you see what positive opportunities might be on the horizon.

3. Know what you know: Separate facts from fiction by asking yourself, "What do I know for sure?" to calm your mind during uncertainty.

4. Acknowledge your feelings: It's normal to feel differently about a change you initiated versus one that was imposed on you.

5. Get an outside perspective: Talk to a friend, family member, or colleague to get a different point of view and reduce stress.

About The Host and Podcast

Welcome to The Better Workday Podcast with your host, Niamh Moynihan. Niamh is the founder of Better Workday. She will challenge you to think differently about how you manage your time, energy, attention and relationships at work to be successful while supporting your well-being.

In each episode Niamh shares new insights and practical ideas to help you create a better workday.

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