At its core, workplace change disrupts the comfort and predictability that make you feel secure. We are creatures of habit—our routines, systems, and even the people we work with give us a sense of stability. When change arrives, it often feels like we’re losing something familiar and stepping into the unknown.
Think about how you’d feel if someone replaced every appliance in your kitchen with a brand-new set you didn’t know how to use. Even if they were technically better, the frustration of relearning everything would make the experience overwhelming. Workplace change can feel just like that—disorienting, uncomfortable, and sometimes deeply personal.
We experience change as both fear and loss. Fear stems from not knowing what will happen next, while loss comes from leaving behind what was comfortable and familiar. This emotional response is completely normal, but what matters is how we work through these feelings.
Your response to change isn’t always linear. In fact, you’ll likely experience a mix of emotions. This process isn’t about ignoring your feelings but moving through them in a way that allows you to regain control and perspective.
Many people initially react to change with shock and denial, followed by anger and frustration—especially when they feel powerless. Some may try to bargain their way out of the change, hoping they can negotiate things back to how they were. If that fails, they might enter a phase of emotional withdrawal before finally reaching a point of acceptance.
This journey is rarely smooth. Some people cycle back through emotions, struggle to move forward, or get stuck in resistance. But ultimately, the goal is to reach a place where you can accept what’s happening and find ways to work with it rather than against it.
Since change is often out of your control, the key to coping is managing your response rather than resisting the inevitable. Here are some strategies to help:
Ignoring your emotions won’t make them go away. Take time to recognize what you’re feeling—whether it’s fear, stress, or sadness—and ask yourself why. Writing down your thoughts or talking to someone you trust can help you process your emotions and gain clarity.
Uncertainty fuels anxiety. The more you understand what’s happening, the better prepared you’ll feel. Instead of relying on workplace gossip, ask your manager direct questions about the change:
Having clear information helps reduce speculation and allows you to focus on facts rather than fears.
Change isn’t always bad—it can bring unexpected opportunities. Instead of fixating on what you’re losing, look for what you might gain. Could this be a chance to build new skills, take on more responsibility, or work with new people? Identifying even small positives can help shift your mindset from resistance to openness.
When everything around you is shifting, it’s easy to feel like you have no control. Remind yourself of your personal and professional goals. Staying focused on your own progress—whether it’s developing a skill, growing your network, or working towards a promotion—can help you feel more empowered.
You’re likely not the only one struggling with the change. Connecting with your team can provide reassurance and a sense of solidarity. However, be mindful of negativity—while venting frustrations is natural, dwelling on complaints won’t help in the long run. Instead, try to support each other through the transition.
Workplace change can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity for growth. By understanding your emotions, seeking information, and focusing on what you can control, you can move from fear and frustration to acceptance and adaptability. Change is part of the working world—but with the right mindset, you can navigate it with confidence.
Karen Gowans
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