As a general rule, most of us fear change. We cling to what’s safe, even when it’s no longer good for us. It might be a job we don’t love, a relationship that’s draining our energy, a toxic friendship, or an unhealthy habit.

We crave security and guarantees. But in order to find true happiness, we must accept that change is the only constant in life. One of the greatest lessons of the Buddha is the truth of impermanence. Nothing is static, and it is the illusion that we think it is which causes a lot of our suffering. 

Are you in the midst of a difficult life transition? Embracing it, rather than running from it, is key. Our greatest hardships and challenges have valuable lessons to teach us because we don't grow without the willingness to move beyond our comfort zone.

Here’s how to accept change and use it as an opportunity for growth.

Be Gentle With Yourself

Now is the time to prioritize self-care. Make sure that you’re getting enough sleep and eating healthy meals. And make room for spending time connecting with your loved ones.

Sometimes when we get stressed about major life changes, we neglect the routines that ground and fulfill us. But if you can manage to continue incorporating these habits into your life, you’ll feel much calmer and confident about taking on the change.

Take Time to Reflect

When you’re facing major changes, journaling can help you work through your emotions and process everything you’re experiencing. How are you feeling right now? What are the biggest challenges you’re dealing with? What are your fears? Is there anything you’re looking forward to?

Most importantly, your journal is a place to record everything you’re learning. Just think—in the future, once things have settled down, you can look back and see how these changes propelled you into the next phase of your life.

Remember Past Achievements

This probably isn’t the first time you’ve dealt with serious life changes that left you reeling. Reflect on other times in your life when difficult changes have actually led to a positive outcome. Think about how confused you probably felt at the time, but how it was all worth it in the end.

If you made it through once, you can do it again! All of us will experience tough transitions several times throughout our lives, but every time we do, we come out the other side that much stronger.

Ask for Help

You don’t have to go through this alone. Other people have been where you are now. Lean on your loved ones and tell them what you’re going through. You might have a friend or relative who has been through the same thing and who can give you some sound advice.

We often feel ashamed when we have to reach out and ask for help, but true friends will be happy to lend you a hand and be your shoulder to cry on. Opening up to someone who cares can feel like shrugging a huge weight off your shoulders.

Positive Visualization

When things change, we often start to assume the worst. We worry that we won’t be as happy as we were in the past. And we fear that we’re getting in over our heads.

Instead of assuming the worst, why not assume the best? Try practicing positive visualization. Think of the best possible outcome for your scenario and allow yourself to hope for what you really want instead of getting bogged down by negative thoughts. Meditate and envision in detail what it would look like if everything worked out for you.

You have more potential than you think—give yourself permission to believe it!

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Are you going through a tough transition and feel like there is no end in sight? Therapy can help you find the light at the end of the tunnel. Contact me today to discuss scheduling a session.

Click here for more information on Life Transitions Counseling.