Life as you knew it has changed. Maybe it’s a small change, or maybe it’s something big. No matter what transition you are going through, this process will help.
At the core, it comes down to acceptance, having an outcome to work towards, and learning how to be present.
I have simplified this process into seven steps and will walk you through each of them. It can be helpful to write these down, but it is not necessary.
How to Make Life Transitions Easier (and cope with the anxiety that comes with it.)
1.) Identify the change.
What life transition are you going through? Identify it specifically with one response. For example: We are moving. I just started a new job. I lost my loved one. Etc.,
2.) Acknowledge your feelings.
What feelings do you have about this change? Don’t hold back or try to run from your feelings, write them down as soon as they pop in your mind. Be honest about the things you feel, good and bad.
3.) Create an outcome to work towards.
How do you want to feel once you have adapted to this change? What do you want life to look like? Be specific. This is something that you can reflect back on when you are feeling overwhelmed. It will help your mind feel at ease to know what you are working towards.
4.) Identify how your priorities might change.
What do you want to focus on more during this time? What do you want to focus on less? Establishing this will help you stay more focused while working towards your desired outcome.
5.) Stay in the present!
When you start overthinking, remind yourself that you are only in control of this present moment. You cannot change the past or predict the future. It can also be helpful to write down your thoughts. Then, look at them and choose to focus on the things that are in your control.
6.) Confront your anxiety.
Anxious thoughts are worries about what you can’t do or change at this moment. Confront these thoughts with facts. For example: “That is out of my control.” “I can only take a moment at a time.” “Change doesn’t happen overnight.” “I can only do one thing at a time.”
7.) Connect with others.
Transitions can be difficult and make you feel isolated. To combat this, you need to be open and honest with your feelings. Reach out to friends, a counselor, or a therapist. You don’t have to do this on your own.
Now that you have gone through this process, I hope you feel less anxious about what you’re going through. Remember, transitions don’t happen overnight. You can only take one moment at a time!