Waves of Change

#change #new #refresh #challenge #fearsunlocked #fearsexplored

Phrases or greetings such as "Happy new year" are being circulated as we enter into the first few days of 2024 and this may likely continue for some time.

There appears to be an underlying suggestion of something new, change, or difference encapsulated in this greeting. And it seems to push forth the main ideas of excitement and anticipation for the recipient. I imagine how this can have a less favourable impact than intended– where recipient ends up feeling distressed by this greeting, as he or she may feel anxious and pressured to perhaps, live up to the expectations of a greater and better year, especially when the year has not started on a particularly favourable note for him/her.

Change presents an overall enticing connotation -- it may represent progress, development and evolution -- all of which are welcome in today's society that value advancements (in reference to wish lists that typically includes getting the latest model for electronic devices).

As with most things, there are two sides to a coin. Change can bring about trepidation, insecurities and challenges, as it requires adjustment and getting used to. And it is dependent on many factors (e.g., one's adaptability, support network) that determines how one experiences as well as navigates through the change (s).

In this new year, I imagine families who may have welcomed a new child and/or pet into their homes, moved house or countries or, where members (of family) have changed jobs, schools and/or priorities in life. All these can inevitably bring about many adjustments to be made on various levels; family-, couple-, partnership- or individual – levels. For sure, it can involve celebrations of milestones and sense of achievement especially if the change is one that is desirable, long awaited and favourable. On the other hand, change can be related to losses too. For instance, the loss of the familiar status quo – in terms of lifestyles, routines, routes to work/school, people and relationships. The last point refers to the loss of seemingly meaningful connections with those whom one encounters on the day-to-day e.g., hawkers, neighbours-turned-friends, cleaners in the previous neighbourhood or workplace. In light of the mentioned adjustments and losses present in this transition, one can experience a mix bag of feelings ranging from nostalgia, sadness, grief, to joy, satisfaction, gratitude and anticipation.

In this “great wave by Hokusai” featured in the image attached (fun-fact: I took several hours in one seating to finish this lego art-frame piece), there are ebbs and flows of waves against the backdrop of mount fuji if we closely observe. As I researched about this artwork, it became apparent that this great wave symbolises an important change happening to the Japanese society; a change in form of foreign influences (as depicted by the waves). This change is in contrast to the stillness of Mount Fuji - which gives the connotation of 'constant' as represented by the Japanese culture.  And, in a similar way, the waves represent how our emotions that are triggered in response to change or transition can be unpredictable. Despite the ups-and-downs of emotions, what remains constant amidst the change could take the forms of our core identity, value and belief systems, that are heavily contingent on one’s cultural context and underpinning as well as family upbringing. 

Here are some ways to support our change journey:

1. Given that it is an emotional roller coaster ride associated with change and transition, we want to acknowledge and validate these feelings first. It will be helpful for us to be patient with ourselves as we manage this sense of overwhelm (which may flood our consciousness like a “tsunami” – pardon the pun with great wave and all). If we require a guide (e.g., therapist) to help with emotional awareness and regulation works, we may want to seriously consider doing so especially if the distress starts to overwhelm us and affect our functioning in various aspects of life (e.g., work, relationships).

2. Individuals in midst of navigating change or transition can consider a shift in perspective which may be helpful for them. After all, how one experiences a situation depends on how one perceives it. While change can be unnerving and anxiety-provoking with its fair share of uncertainties, we can consider alternative interpretations. For instance, if we perceive it as an opportunity for growth where one gets the chance to hone life’s essential skills such as cognitive flexibility and put our adaptability and resilience to the test, it may change our responses and experience. This may in turn provide us with a more conducive state to not just function but to thrive with change. And this can also send the important message that we are capable of learning and growth with opportunity as well as trials and tribulations that change can bring. This is especially supportive in a world where change is likely a consistent and regular phenomenon we will be faced with.

3. From "the great wave" art work above, we got a glimpse of how socio-cultural underpinnings can potentially serve as a buffer (or stabilising agent) to the changing landscapes (due to modernisation and technological advancements, just to name a few). Hence, in our bid to cope with change, we want to harness our socio-cultural and family backgrounds, values and belief systems, our support systems and networks to lend us the sense of stability, grounding and equilibrium in the midst of change and uncertainty.

For some of us who, despite the knowledge of the above mentioned steps, require further exploration and/or guidance to navigate this seemingly turbulent but exciting journey of change and transitions, please know that you are not alone in this. Do reach out if and when the need arises.

Rooting for you always,

Jeanice

The great wave symbolises an important change happening to the Japanese society; a change in form of foreign influences (as depicted by the waves). This change is in contrast to the stillness of Mount Fuji - which gives the connotation of 'constant' as represented by the Japanese culture.