By Tammy Mastroberte, Founder, Elevated Existence Magazine

It’s easy to find security in the familiar. Even if we aren’t happy with our current situation, at least we know what to expect. Uncertainty makes us uncomfortable. It causes anxiety because we don’t always know what lies ahead.

Have you ever stayed in a relationship or a job because it was easier then taking the risk and making a change? Have you dreamed of starting your own business, going back to school or moving to a new city, but convinced yourself it’s not the right time, you’re too old, or it’s too difficult? Did you think to yourself, “what if I leave and I’m worse off then I am now?”

I’ve never been a big fan of change. I’m a Virgo, and we like stability and a clear plan. We like to know every roadblock that may be ahead of us before we even step foot on the path. When I was younger, it would throw my world off when my mother rearranged the furniture in the living room because it was no longer familiar to me.

But I’ve learned change is not only inevitable, it’s also necessary. We don’t grow standing still.

Deepak Chopra said, “Uncertainty is the fertile ground of pure creativity and freedom.” It’s through uncertainty that we create new circumstances in our lives, and often despite the fear we feel, the risk is worth the reward.

Here are a few tips for navigating and embracing change:

–Use a Powerful Affirmation: “Only good lies before me. The universe has my back and is always working toward my ultimate good. I trust the universe.” Write it on an index card and carry it with you. Post it on your mirror or computer, and look at it throughout the day. Even set a reminder in your cell phone to alert you a few times during the day. Take a deep breath and repeat it to yourself.

–Use Visualization – Imagine the outcome being favorable. Spend at least five minutes a day visualizing success and happiness when it comes to the change you are facing.

-Ask for ‘Elevated Help’ – in a previous Editor’s Advice column, I spoke about calling in ‘Elevated Reinforcements.’ When faced with a change or uncertainty, try this prayer: “Dear God – I call on my angels, guides, loved ones who have passed and all those in my soul family – only those of the highest vibration – to help me dissolve my fear and have faith in the outcome of  (insert change or situation). I am turning it over to you, and I ask you to help me be aware of signs you send my way to guide me to a successful and favorable outcome.”

–Be kind to Yourself – Change is not always easy, so we need to remember to take care of ourselves when going through it. Find time in your day to relax and let go. Take a bubble bath; curl up with a book and a cup of tea at the end of the day; or plan a dinner with good friends to lose yourself in laughter and be in the present moment.

Sometimes we have to just feel the fear and move forward despite it. As Neale Donald Walsch said, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Push yourself today, and enjoy the growth tomorrow.

Have you taken a risk, or made a big change in your life that led you to more joy, freedom and happiness – despite the initial fear and anxiety? Share in the comments below!

Tammy Mastroberte is a three-time, award-winning writer, founder of Elevated Existence, and publisher and editorial director of the multi-award-winning Elevated Existence Magazine. She started the new age, spiritual and self-improvement publication at age 30 – eight years after the sudden death of her mother from a brain aneurysm only three days after Christmas in 1999. This tragedy led her down a synchronistic path to discover her purpose and the meaning behind many of the events in her life – including her mother’s death. She now shares her guidance, and the wisdom of today’s top authors and spiritual celebrities through Elevated Existence Magazine. Follow her on Twitter: @ElevatedTammy or on Instagram: elevatedtammy. For more information, visit www.tammymastroberte.com.