Life Transitions
Change can be hard, even if it’s good change. And “the only constant in life is change”, so it’s important to develop resilience, coping mechanisms and problem-solving strategies around change.
Some changes are anticipated, even wanted, but they can still cause turmoil. You are finally quitting your job and getting that master’s degree you always wanted, and you are excited! But, you didn’t think through some of the negatives of not having a regular income or the independence you are used to. You finally had a baby! The baby is adorable, and you are so happy to have her. At the same time, it’s tough not to sleep much, not to be able to go out and do what you want when you want to, and, frankly, a newborn is a bit boring. Why didn’t anyone tell you that?
Unwanted change is harder. You love where you live and don’t want to move, but you got a great job in another city and know you have to take it. You’ve been married for 20 years and are now getting a divorce. How will that work financially, with the kids, with the dog?
Stress associated with change can cause people to experience depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, headaches and changes in eating habits as well as drug and alcohol use.
There are tools everyone can utilize to make change easier, although learning how to use the tools can be difficult. We can choose to look at the negatives or positives of change. Choosing to think more about the positive than the negative will leave you feeling better about it. Your thoughts affect your mood. Similarly, those who compare themselves with others going through a similarly stressful time or are in even a worse situation manage better than those who only look at others who they think are doing better.
Stress associated with change is often related to the unknown. This can be mitigated by doing as much research as possible. If a big change is coming, try to minimize other, smaller changes. Too much change at once is harder to manage.
It may sound overly simple but taking care of yourself can also help reduce stress caused by change. Make sure you are sleeping, eating, exercising and finding time to relax (if possible.)
Change can be uncomfortable and scary but learning how to effectively navigate change can influence personal growth and make you stronger. Change can encourage you to gain new skills and interests that you wouldn’t have thought about previously. If you are going through a life transition and would like some assistance with the process, please get in touch.