There is a famous quotation that says “Change is the only thing permanent in this world”. Indeed, change is everywhere and is inevitable. But why is it that a lot of us can’t cope with change? Or should I say… why is it that we are we afraid of change?

Another quotation says “If you can’t change the circumstance, change the way you think about it”. This should be the mantra of every individual who’s afraid of change. Since it is unavoidable, the only way to arrest this fear is to accept it and change the way we look at change. Make it a positive thing.

Here is an example: You are on your way to school and the traffic is very heavy. You know you will be late for a test and your professor does not give make-up quizzes. Here are the three things might happen: a) you will be annoyed by how things are going but you can’t do anything but to curse the traffic and all the transportation means you see on the road; b) suddenly, all drivers will look stupid, and the Philippine government officials are imbecile in your eyes; c) you will talk to your professor if he/she could give you a make-up test and if he/she declines your request, you will think of him/her as inhumane and will talk about him/her with all bitterness. There. Those are the things that could happen. How do I know? I know because I’ve been there. But I’m glad I was able to take myself out of that dark hole that almost ate me up.

Do you remember the “half full” “half empty” glass situation? I was reminded by that during our college retreat. Indeed, things don’t always seem as they are. It always depends on how we see and adjust to different circumstances. So instead of blabbering about traffic congestion, why not study your notes or take a nap? There’s no point in stressing yourself with all the negative “vibes” you yourself count. Instead, take a step or even a leap in doing whatever needs to be done – change the way you think about difficult circumstances, change the way you think about life per se. Make life positive and happy.

Now that I have stressed my point, I would like to end with my last advice: A happy person is able to accept change and is positive about life.

By: Erika M. Ilagan