All change begins with an ending. We may try hard to intellectualize it, thinking that if we understand it, we can deal with it. However, we do not always have the skills to deal with emotional reservations. Like the organ reject theory, our minds may know that the change is good for us, but the body still rejects it. Intellectually, we may accept a change, but emotionally, we may still resist it.

Change is sometimes perceived as exciting, stimulating, and motivating. Jack Welch, the former CEO of GE and a popular consultant, talks about change with excitement. He believes in seizing the opportunity and being open to what is ahead. “Face reality as it is, not as it was or as you wish it to be.”

“You can look at the situation and feel victimized. Or you can look at it and be excited about conquering the challenges and opportunities it presents.”

Change is often viewed as loss. An ending can be a loss, but a loss can be celebrated. It simply means that we are letting go of one thing to grasp on to another. Failing to identify and get ready for loss is the biggest difficulty for people in transition.