35 Quotes About Change — Embracing Life's Transitions

The Psychology of Change

Dr. William Bridges distinguished between "change" (external event) and "transition" (internal process) with three phases: Ending, Neutral Zone, and New Beginning. People who honor this process adapt more successfully.

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."

"Change is the only constant in life."

"The secret of change is to focus all energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new."

"They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself."

"Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."

"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves."

"Life is about change. Sometimes it's painful. Sometimes it's beautiful. But most of the time, it's both."

"Be the change that you wish to see in the world."

"One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world."

"Change your thoughts and you change your world."

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer."

"The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking."

"Incredible change happens when you decide to take control of what you do have power over."

"I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination."

"The only way to make a change is to actually make a change."

"Change is painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don't belong."

"Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck."

"Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself."

"To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often."

"Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself."

Navigating Change Wisely

• Honor the ending — grief for what's lost is normal and necessary
• Embrace the neutral zone — the uncomfortable in-between is where transformation happens
• Focus on what you can control
• Seek support — people navigate change better in community