Chapter 1 A Close-Up View of You 9
Developing Skills to Adjust to the
Change
As you gather information about a change,
you will identify skills needed to be successful in
the new situation. Developing these skills is the
second step in preparing for change. For example,
a new job may require skills for managing time or
relating to customers. As you prepare for a change
in a relationship, you may need to develop skills
for sharing your inner feelings or better listening
skills. With patience and practice, new skills can
be developed.
Managing the Change
The third step in preparing for change is to
develop a plan to manage it. This step can help
make the experience a positive one. For example,
what changes might occur when you get your fi rst
full-time job? Will your family expect you to buy
can avoid these feelings by learning about change
and using the right skills to manage it (Figure 1.3).
Gathering Information
Learning as much as possible about upcoming
changes can help you prepare for them. For instance,
it is helpful to know what changes to expect as your
body grows and develops during adolescence.
When these changes occur, you will not be upset
by them because you know they are normal.
When you get your fi rst job or apartment, you
can expect many changes. Couples experience
change when they start going out, get engaged, or
get married. Still more changes occur when people
become parents.
What information will help you adjust to life’s
changes? What can be expected? What have others
felt as they went through these changes? Knowing
what to expect is the fi rst step in preparing for
change.
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Figure 1.3 Preparing for change as you mature to adulthood can help you feel confident. What steps do you
think teens should take to get prepared?
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