From Tradition to Transformation: Using Cultural Wisdom to Adapt Change

It is said that change is often met with resistance. In my experience, this holds true. Most people are uncomfortable with changes around them. When I reflected on this further, I realized that people's perceptions of change vary. When adapting to change, many individuals are pushed beyond their comfort zones or sense of security, leading to negative perceptions and experiences. This discomfort is often a key reason why people fear change.

However, these people should understand (or remember) that there is nothing in life that does not change. Everything in existence changes.  Even the so-called “Static States” are also dynamic in nature. If we think, at one moment we inhale, the next moment we exhale — it's also a change. The very essence of physical reality is change. Therefore resisting the change is ultimately resisting the life. This resistance invites or creates all kinds of troubles and suffering for the people. It often triggers anxiety, which naturally leads to frustration. If left unaddressed, this frustration can evolve into depression over time. I believe, that to help people to adapt to the change more effectively, we can draw upon the wisdom embedded in our cultural traditions. Ancient Sanskrit shlokas, for instance, offer timeless guidance that can help individuals embrace change with greater resilience and flexibility. These can serve as guardrails in adaptation to the change.

Below are the examples,

1) न कंचित् शाश्वतम् – Nothing is permeant.

2) परिवर्तनमेव स्थिरमस्ति - The only constant is change.

3) अंत: अस्ति प्रारंभ – The end is the beginning.

These have been regarded as अटल सत्य (Absolute Truth or Fundamental Facts of life) for nearly 10,000 years.

How do I use these to handle change ?

Since change is inevitable, I always anticipate changes in all aspects of life. This mindset keeps me open-minded and prepared, protecting me from surprises or shocks. I understand that every change marks the end of something old and the beginning of something new—an ongoing cycle that reinforces the truth that nothing is permanent except change itself.

Since I am aware of these guardrails, this is how I handle changes coming to me are out of my control,

1) Accept the change: I acknowledge that I cannot control every aspect of my environment. Accepting this reality allows me to move forward and adapt rather than resist.

2) Focus on what I can control: While I may not be able to influence the change itself, I can control my response. By focusing on my attitude and actions, I strive to make the best of the situation.

3) Seek support and resources: Discussing change with colleagues, friends, or mentors helps me gain valuable perspectives and strategies for coping effectively.

4) Prioritize Self-Care: Managing change requires resilience, which is why I make a conscious effort to take breaks, exercise, and engage in activities that bring me joy.

5) Look for opportunities: While change can be challenging, it often brings new possibilities. Keeping an open mind allows me to identify opportunities for growth and progress.

In my professional life as well, I apply the same guardrails. For instance, for every upcoming change, I thoroughly analyze its impact and design a communication plan that anticipates resistance, difficult discussions, emotional reactions, and frustrations. I also recognize that change does not occur at the same pace or in the same manner—some transitions are gradual, while others are sudden and disruptive. Taking this into account, I tailor my communication and next steps accordingly.

This proactive approach has been invaluable over the years, helping me navigate change with greater confidence and adaptability.

Before closing, I’d like to share another of my favorite Shlok:

सर्वं कारणोद्भवमस्ति - Everything has a reason to happen, or everything happens for a reason.

This perspective helps me eliminate doubts or questions like “Why is this change happening?” Instead of resisting, I focus on understanding the root cause or trigger behind the change. This provides clarity and additionally helps me mentally align with the transition. Moreover, it equips me to explain and guide others through the process, if needed.

What are your thoughts on this? I’d love to hear them.

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