So I’m sitting there one evening, sipping tea when my phone blows up. Work chat group’s buzzing – our whole project team’s getting reshuffled. Again. My gut drops because honestly, I suck at handling change. Always feel like tossing my cookies when things flip upside down. So I thought, screw it, time to actually figure out how regular folks like me can prep without losing their minds.
Step 1: Admitted I Was Freaking Out
First thing? Straight-up stared at the wall for 20 minutes pretending everything was fine. Spoiler: it wasn’t. Finally went “YEP, I’M STRESSED AF” out loud. Felt dumb but weirdly better. Just naming the panic cuts its power in half. Pro tip: Say it to your pet if humans scare you. My cat Judgy Fluffbutt didn’t care but I did.
Step 2: Made a “WTF Is Changing?” List
Grabbed a crumpled receipt and scribbled:
- New boss? (probably)
- Different work hours? (god no)
- Gotta learn new software? (kill me now)
Seeing it on paper made it feel smaller. Like facing monsters under your bed with a flashlight.
Step 3: Stole Tiny Victory Moments
Instead of doomscrolling, I spent 15 minutes cleaning my disaster desk. Felt dumb but organizing physical space tricks your brain into feeling somewhat in control. Also did one stupidly easy work task I’d been avoiding – instant mood boost. Tiny wins build momentum.
Step 4: Talked to Humans (Blegh)
Texted two coworkers: “Hey you freaking out about the reshuffle too?” Both instantly replied “YES THANK GOD YOU SAID IT.” Felt less alone. Later cornered my manager for 5 minutes like “Look I just need to know if I’m keeping my stapler” – got some clarity without sounding like a maniac.
Results: Less Puking, More Progress
Three weeks into the chaos, I’m still here. Didn’t magically love change but didn’t hide under blankets either. That “WTF” list? Crossed off half the worries already. Turns out most change feels like getting shoved into cold water – terrible at first but you stop gasping eventually.
Biggest lesson? Stop fighting the tsunami. Build a crappy little boat instead.
