How to Better Handle Big Life Changes
I am one of the newest members of the Be Inspired family, and this has been an awesome change for me to make in my life. But with that said, I am one of those people who typically struggle with making big life changes. I can’t tell you how many times in my life I have said “I hate change!” Seriously—I have been using the same brand of Chapstick since the 7th grade: Burt’s Bees Mango Butter. Every other Chapstick is inferior, and you cannot convince me otherwise.
There is not much we are guaranteed in this life—but change is one of them. Here are some ways I have found to help me and my clients handle big life changes a little bit easier.
3 Practical Tips to Navigate Big Life Changes
1. Look to the positives
If this is a change you are intentionally making—moving in with someone you love, changing jobs, moving houses, etc.—try to focus on the positive things that come with this change.
For example, if I am moving and struggle with change, my mind may race about the uncertainties. “What if the roof there leaks and I haven’t realized it yet?” “What if I can’t sleep because I am closer to the highway and can hear the cars?” “What if I regret moving and miss my old house?”
If your mind starts to spiral negatively, redirect your thoughts.
Remember why you chose to make this change! “I’m excited to have more windows in this house. I can imagine myself reading by the natural light.” “The drive to work will be so much shorter since I will be near the highway now.” “I can’t wait to make memories in this house.”
2. Keep other things stable
There are some choices we make willingly in life, and there are some we don’t get a say in. If you struggle with change, the changes that come suddenly can be the most overwhelming.
Focus on the things within your control during this time and find some solace in your routine. If you already had a shocking change this week, this week may not be the time to also start working out five days a week. Eat your favorite foods. Watch your comfort show. Embrace sameness to cope with the big change in your life.
3. Give yourself grace
For many, struggling with change can be draining, both physically and emotionally. Engage in some extra self-care when things around you are starting to change. It’s okay to struggle with this. It’s more common than most people admit.
Let yourself feel the struggle and be gentle with yourself in adjusting. You will adjust, and things will get easier, so give yourself grace in the meantime.
I have adjusted to my job change better than I expected. But, I knew it might be hard for me. So, I gave myself grace. I didn’t expect things to be perfect right away. I allowed myself to miss my old coworkers and I brought some cozy things from home to my new office.
If you struggle with change too, let’s talk about it together. I hope to see you soon in my new office!
About the Author
Karlee Beville, LCSW, specializes in working with teens and adults to overcome past trauma and move toward a life where they can truly thrive. She’s also passionate about supporting individuals exploring neurodivergence or navigating how to better help a loved one.
Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting’s mission is to inspire hope for change to help individuals move forward and live fully.
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