The Cognitive Science Behind Sudden Change
Briefly

The Cognitive Science Behind Sudden Change
"So, take that idea, that feeling, that sense of identity, and think about the rug being pulled out from under you. So, maybe your company goes out of business, maybe you get laid off, or somehow the journey you thought you were on has been derailed. That sounds absolutely horrible, and I think it would be really hard to figure out how to recover. So, it is, and look, we talk about change, we talk about adaptability all the time, it's sort of theoretical."
"Today's guest is here to offer real, concrete ideas based on research as to how to frame sudden change, how to adapt to it, and how to really grow from it. So, Maya Shankar is a cognitive scientist, she's host of the podcast, A Slight Change of Plans, and author of the book, The Other Side of Change: Who We Become When Life Makes Other Plans. Here's my conversation with Maya."
Many people tie self-identity closely to their jobs, titles, and professional expertise. Sudden disruptions such as layoffs, company closures, or derailed career journeys can feel like the rug being pulled out from under them. Recovering from such shocks can feel overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Research-based strategies can provide concrete ways to reframe sudden change, build adaptability, and foster personal growth. Cognitive science and practical insights can illuminate how to shift perspective, manage loss of role-based identity, and intentionally cultivate new directions and strengths after unexpected setbacks.
Read at Harvard Business Review
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