I can't believe that it is already the middle of November - where did the time go?! So much has happened this month that many of us are already overwhelmed and tired out. I know that I was exhausted by the time the election came around just from excitement about the major change we were facing - the first African-American president or a female VP. This exemplifies how much our country has changed over the past 50 years. Of course, there are some challenges associated with change. Some of us don't handle change well. We are creatures of habit and when things get off-schedule, yield an unexpected result or our options are limited, some people experience feelings of sadness, loss and depression.

How do you handle change? Does the idea of something new trigger a surge of energy and excitement through you? Do you wake up each morning wondering what the day will bring your way? Living in central Ohio we have many opportunities to assess how we handle change whether it be the weather (upper 60 degrees for days then a drop to the 30's) or adapting to the loss of a favorite newscaster. Do you complain or feel moments of frustration when situations don't meet your needs or expectations? Are you able to shrug it off and turn to Plan B?

One thing is for certain - things change. Unless it is made of stone (and even that degrades over time), everything changes. Change is a reflection of growth and learning. Change allows us to replace bad with good, good with better. Most of all, change gives us an opportunity to start anew. One secret to handling change well is to be proactive rather than reactive about change. Take charge and change something. So what if yesterday was filled with mistakes, you don't have to repeat them today. Making a conscious choice to change yourself will likely yield positive effects in others. The 'ripple effect' still applies. Small changes, such as putting on a smile every morning and being the first to greet family or co-workers may make the day nicer for all. Saying a prayer before you start the car and pull out may center you enough that the slow traffic doesn't sour your mood during your commute. Saying 'Thank you' for even the smallest gesture may make someone feel validated.

This month I challenge you to deliberately change a behavior. Make it an experiment for ten days. If you like what you see, go for ten more days. Don't fear change. After all, "If life was predictable, it would cease to be life, and be without flavor" 'Eleanor Roosevelt.

About the Author:
Dr. Jacqui Lewis-Lyons is a Clinical Psychologist and a Life Coach who works with women and children around issues related to health and stress problems. She has over 2o years experience in the mental health field. Dr. Jacqui enjoys helping clients make their lives more positive and satisfying as they reach their goals. She is located in Columbus, Ohio. Her practice is Personal Wholeness Solutions, the website is www.PWSLifeCoach.com .

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