7 Strategies to Handle Change and Life Transitions
Written by Kendall Sapiro, LMSW Psychotherapist at Wavelength Psychotherapy
KEY POINTS:
Change can be uncomfortable and overwhelming.
Life is filled with swift transitions.
Embrace change to invite a new way of life.
Use strategies to make change less scary.
Prioritize yourself and ask for help when needed.
Change Is Hard.
Nobody likes change; it can be scary, challenging, or just plain annoying. A breakup, new work responsibilities, or a friend moving away are all hard. We may feel lost, uncertain, or anxious when things change, whether they change intentionally or naturally.
We like to feel comfortable and supported. It can be overwhelming when our pretty little world evolves around us. Change doesn’t have to be scary, though. Embracing change can free you from your current circumstances and better equip you to face your new stage of life.
Imagine you were transferred to a new department at work. Your first reaction might be panicked thoughts like, “How do I do this position?!” and “How will I get to know all my new coworkers?!” There’s always another perspective, though. Try being excited about the new responsibilities and getting to know a new group of people!
While challenging, altering your perspective can help during these difficult times. Try to invite change and transitions in life and know they can lead to a fabulous new way of life.
Here are suggestions to help you embrace change and strategies to navigate life’s transitions with resilience and grace:
Recognize the Nature of Transitions
Transitions are a natural and often inevitable part of our lives. Try to think of these events as a gift, not a punishment. Change comes with tremendous opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By leaning into change, you can take control of your road ahead.
Cultivate Self-Awareness
Don’t force yourself to jump in headfirst. Take time to understand your feelings, thoughts, and fears associated with the change. Journal, take a walk, call a friend, or do whatever helps you unwind and shift your mindset from one of resistance to one of openness.
Use Your Support System
It's important to rely on your friends and family when it feels like everything is changing. Being around positive people who lift you up can give you emotional support and new viewpoints during tough times.
Practice Self-Care
When we’re stressed and overwhelmed, it’s easy to neglect self-care and the little things that fill us up. However, self-care becomes even more crucial in these times.
Prioritize activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Self-care for you may mean exercising and eating healthy. Or it could mean getting in bed early to unwind without technology. Taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally will enhance your resilience and make you more open to change.
Embrace the Unknown
Most transitions in life have a degree of uncertainty and unpredictability. Instead of resisting the unknown, try embracing it by viewing it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Accepting uncertainty can help you adapt to new circumstances and foster resiliency and flexibility.
Be Patient With Yourself!
Change takes time, and adjusting to new circumstances may have ups and downs. Practice self-compassion as you navigate through the process–it’s not linear. You’re doing your best; you only have to aim for 1% better.
Seek Professional Help
Admitting that you need help is one of the most powerful things we can do for ourselves. Life transitions counseling is always an option. If you struggle with changes or often feel anxious and depressed, talking to a mental health professional can be immensely beneficial.
Therapists provide a safe space to explore your emotions. They also help develop coping strategies and offer guidance on navigating transitions.
While transitions can be scary, they offer incredible personal growth and transformation opportunities. We can handle life changes better by accepting them, caring for ourselves, and asking for help.
Remember–you can adapt, grow, and thrive through every transition that comes your way. Take it one step at a time, and before you know it, you won’t be able to believe that life was ever any different.
Kendall
Kendall Sapiro, LMSW, is an associate therapist at Wavelength Psychotherapy in downtown Manhattan and NJ! Her therapeutic approach is highly motivational and fun, and she loves working with her fabulous patients. After work, you can find her walking the dogs she babysits, trying out new restaurants with friends, and being outside as much as possible!
