Changes in life can be thrilling or frightening, uncomfortable or dreams come true. One thing is for sure, and that is that there will be changes regardless of how much you like things staying the same. People differ in their approach to change. Some get bored easily, make changes frequently, and like it that way. Others resist change. If you are one of these resisters, you might be beating yourself out of some great new experiences and opportunities.

Anyone can learn to have a more welcoming attitude toward life changes. Every end is a beginning of something else. Of course, some things we hate to see end. We hate it when a loved one dies, and they leave an empty place in our heart that might never heal completely. Even so, we are also embarking on a new journey of awareness of grief and loss that could lead to rewarding interactions with new people.

Other changes are less dramatic, and with a proper outlook, can be seen as exciting new opportunities. For instance, when the kids have all moved out, you can look at yourself as a lonely, frustrated old "empty-nester." Or you can get excited about all the spare time you have to pursue those hobbies and interests you could only dream about in years past. Take a class, sew, or learn to square dance. One reason you miss the kids is because kids are fun. So do something fun!

Perhaps you have lost your job. Whether you were fired or simply cut because of downsizing, it's downright scary to suddenly lose your security and income. But what a fabulous opportunity for a career change! Is there something you've secretly always wanted to do but couldn't because you were already tied down to a secure job? Now's the time to investigate the possibilities that a slumbering dream might have genuine merit.

Embracing change as a friend requires faith - faith in God, providence, people, life, and yourself. Faith is really just learning to believe that things will turn out good. Decide to be an optimist and not a pessimist. Sure, you don't really know what the future will be. But even if you only have a fifty-fifty chance of things turning out good, wouldn't you rather assume the good outcome than the bad?

If the change you are facing is the break-up of an important relationship, again, see it as a beginning. Don't get bogged down in regrets and guilt. Sure, it was probably partly your fault, but it's out of your hands now. Take responsibility for your actions, apologize if it's in order, and then forgive yourself. Don't let it ruin your relationship with yourself.

While change can be scary, boredom can be even less desirable. Change gives you a chance to break out of the rut and see some new scenery. It gives you a chance to learn new things about the world around you. Even more important, it's an opportunity to learn new things about yourself. Don't fear change. Welcome it with open arms!