Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid Of Change | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid Of Change

Don't hate change, embrace it.

1787
Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid Of Change
Twitter

The word "change" seems to have a negative connotation. Many fear it, others despise it and for the most part, people seem to reject the idea. Realistically though, there's no need to feel threatened by it. Change can be a good thing, and here's why.

For a long time, I was scared of change. The summer after my senior year of high school, I was terrified by the prospect of moving to a completely new city full of strangers. I even considered attending community college for a few years just so I could live at home and continue my normal, familiar routine. I did NOT want to be pushed outside of my comfort zone and was terrified of being in a new environment all by myself.

But as it turned out, the transition from living at home to moving into a dorm at U of I wasn’t the horrible experience I had expected. In fact, I ended up loving my new lifestyle almost immediately. My fears dissipated as I met tons of new people, experienced new-found freedom, and learned to take care of myself completely on my own. I had never been happier.

Yet, when I returned home on my first break, more confident and upbeat than ever, some of my old friends weren't so thrilled. I still remember getting into an argument with one of my friends and hearing her say, with disgust and disappointment in her voice, “You’ve changed.”

At the time, I was upset and insisted that I was still the same person that they knew and loved, frightened by the accusation of being any different. However, looking back now, I realize that I shouldn't have been distraught, vehemently denying the obvious. I had changed and it was for the better. Yes, maybe I was a different person from who I was before I started college, but why was that a bad thing?

If you are happy and growing as an individual, no one should tell you that your journey is wrong. If they do, it's probably because they're afraid of change themselves, but they shouldn't be. Without change, we would never meet new people, experience unfamiliar places or find out what we're capable of. If I had let my fear of change get the best of me and never went away for college, I would've never met some of my best friends, had some of the best moments of my life and discovered who I was. Perhaps it can be a little daunting at first, but in the long run, you'll find yourself more competent, knowledgeable and potentially happier than before.

Looking back, you'll regret the opportunities that you missed simply because you were afraid of something new. So don't hate change; embrace it. Life is all about growing and evolving.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

24617
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10278
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7536
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments