Today I took a necessary trip to Disneyland with my family. (Sometimes, you’ve just got to push other things aside and go find some joy!) But going to Disneyland with a toddler means the rides you go on have to be adjusted accordingly. One of my favorite rides in the park is Indiana Jones (not toddler friendly). Fortunately, they’ve seen a family’s plight and now allow single riders! My husband is a doll and gave me a few moments to myself to enjoy it. Little did I realize that my quick ride excursion would teach me a valuable lesson.

Like many other families, mine is in the midst of change – again. And not the kind that is seemingly exciting. Not to the outside world, anyway. It seems that many people around us seem to feel more chaotic about our change than we do. So while I sat calmly by myself on a chaotic ride where everyone around me was screaming and yelling, gripping with fright, I smiled and spent the moment in pure joy and tranquility. It reminded me that we can do that exact thing in our lives, despite the people around us and their reactions to our change.

Last weekend I had the pleasure of listening to some incredible teachers share how to effectively deal with change – whatever it is (job loss, loss of a loved one, dealing with an illness, a change in attitude, whatever). I thought I’d share them with you. This method is simple yet brilliant, and truly, very effective.

How to Move Through Changes

1. Accept what is (Accept it. It’s old news now.)
2. Harvest the good (What I learned is…I grew in this way…I can now…)
3. Forgive all the rest

In our family, we’re choosing to use this method and remain calm – confident in and excited by the new opportunities that this change will bring. I encourage you to consider this method too, and consider giving those around you the ability to make a better choice as well.