Life is full of transitions. Whether you are graduating from high school, getting a divorce, moving, watching grown children leave the nest, retiring, grieving the loss of a loved one, or starting a new job, one thing is predictable: life is full of changes. Do you struggle to handle big changes? If so, you are in good company. Humans like stability, certainty, and predictability. Most of us get used to the routines in our lives. So when a transition looms, we gulp. Life is about to feel foreign.
Transitions can be a way to get to know yourself all over again. They can test our resilience and stretch us to our limit. Some transitions are welcome and some are not. Transitions can be scary, painful, and sometimes shocking. What follows are four tips for handling transitions in a purposeful and peaceful way.
- Establish routines
Transitions involve getting used to a “new normal.” The more quickly you can lay down new routines, the smoother the transition will be. If establishing new routines seems daunting, focus on just one part of the day be it first thing in the morning, mid-afternoon, or before bed. Nail down at least a couple of things that you will do during this part of the day no matter what.
- Be patient
Human beings are creatures of habit; therefore, it can take a good while for a transition to become the new normal. Give yourself time to ease in to the transition and be kind to yourself. This includes putting a pause on any expectations or timelines you may have. Take your time getting used to your new normal. Now is not the time to pressure yourself or anyone else.
- Make a daily date with the discomfort
The transition you are going through may feel uncomfortable, even if it is a welcome transition. Will you pay attention to that discomfort, giving it some space to breathe? This may look different for everybody but will involve setting aside 5-15 minutes daily to pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations as they relate to the discomfort, pain, sadness, joy, and other feelings involved.
- Make a daily date with your dreams
What are your hopes during this transition? What kind of a person do you want to be through this transition? What do you wish and hope for as the outcome of the transition? Take 5-15 minutes every day to dream. Expand your horizons. Engage your imagination.
Experiencing a transition can be a roller coaster of ups and downs. Remind yourself that the ride will not always be so bumpy; there is smoother terrain ahead. Whether the transition you’re facing is welcome or not, try approaching it with willingness. Your willingness, combined with the above strategies, will help you feel more at peace with yourself and your circumstances as you navigate this unfamiliar territory.
Until next time,
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