How To Deal With Change

Throughout our lives things will change; sometimes it’s the change we chose and other times

it’s a change that we weren’t expecting. No matter the change you are facing, remember that these moments are meant for you. First, I want to say that change is terrifying, hard, and sometimes life altering. You are not just “what happens to you” you are choosing what you want to become, and for that you should be commended. Someone reached out to me about a change they are facing. They are going from single life to a serious relationship. Although exciting, it can be hard to let go of the freedom you had when you were only living for yourself. Sharing your life with someone is the definition of a new beginning. It’s an exciting one, but one that will take time to adjust to. Whether you are experiencing a new move, a newly wed adjusting to married life, planning to have a baby, finishing your degree in university, going back to university, or making healthier life style decisions, change is HARD. Here are 6 ways to help you in your efforts to deal with change.

Grieve The Loss Of A Past Life

When you are used to a certain lifestyle or routine, it is extremely hard to face this new “normal”. Give yourself a break! When COVID started I couldn’t travel, which I completely understand is a luxury, but it was really hard for me to accept my new normal and be in one place. It was so foreign to me, completely different to my lifestyle, and I really struggled with it — I still do. I missed being in new countries all the time and my fast-paced lifestyle. It’s one that I still look back on with the fondest memories. When I came back to my home town and got an apartment, I felt like a fish out of water. I had no idea how to accept this and I didn’t want to. If you are experiencing this, if you are struggling with your new normal, it is okay. This adjustment period will be uncomfortable and that is okay. Give yourself some time. Practice self care, and know that however uncomfortable, this is where you are supposed to be.

Trust in New Beginnings

Accepting change is the hard part, but the sooner you do the sooner you can enjoy where you are. Trust that these new beginnings were made for you and enjoy it. Look for the things to be grateful for, look for the ways you personally are changing in positive ways. Trust that you are in the right place.

Normalize Your “New Normal”

There was a time in my life where I was forced to experience a “new normal,” one that I felt I was not entirely ready for. I started to incorporate things that made my new normal feel less foreign to me. I did things that made me feel like myself and that made me feel happy. If you are moving to a new place and you used to love getting your nails done at your favorite place, find a new favorite place to go. If you are a new mom and you are feeling overwhelmed, find some YOU time. Whatever you are feeling — take a break, take a nap, or take a breath. Normalize this new normal by incorporating things that make you happy.

Be Firm About Your Choices:

Don’t go back on your decision because it was easier or more comfortable. When you are on the right path, an adversary will try to push against you. You need to stand strong against it, don’t doubt yourself, and be firm in your choice. You needed to move forward for a reason. You weren’t evolving in the way you needed to anymore and it is time for you to level up. Although this moment of change may be bring you a lot of self doubt, you can trust that you are evolving into a new you.

Did I Make the Right Choice?

Are you feeling it? The doubt that may be creeping in? The one that is saying “This was supposed to make me happy,” or “This was what I wanted.. wasn’t it?” When I left University to start a business and a new life for myself my new path was an uphill one, like a 20% incline on a treadmill that never ended! I constantly doubted myself, where I was, and if I made the right choice. No matter the outcome, your decision was the right choice. It gave you time to grow, it taught you something new, and it gave you the personal experiences that you may have been lacking. Your new path is not always the easiest path. You outgrew where you were and you now have the chance to keep moving to find out why.

Be Gentle With Yourself When You are Going Through Growth

It’s very easy to be self critical when you are growing. It’s easy to point out your mistakes. Let’s apply this in a little analogy. Let’s say we gave some children an easy puzzle to do and they all completed it with ease. When they were given a newer, harder puzzle, many of them got discouraged. “I was so good at the last one.. what is wrong with me now?” Personally, my first instinct is to comfort the child and let them know there is nothing wrong with them. They are just facing something more challenging. The same goes for you. Some experiences feel like they are changing you for the worse. Maybe something happened and you are now more prone to anxiety or depression. That is okay. These new parts of you may be difficult to love, understand, and accept, but when you learn to love yourself anyway, you will be able to find happiness even in chaos. Be kind to yourself and be grateful for the new ways that you are evolving.

‘The Life In Front Of You Is Much More Important Than The One Behind You”

“The Life in front of you is much more important than the one behind you.” I love this quote because it reminds me that I was made for something more. There is more for you to do and more for you to become. Your past brought you to this point and your future challenges are what will prepare you for your truest purpose. Remember to be grateful for the changes that you are facing and move forward with excitement for what is to come.

“Life is about change. Sometimes it’s beautiful, sometimes it’s painful, most of the time it’s both.” -Lana Lang

Whatever change you are experiencing in your life, know that you are on the right path even if it doesn’t feel like it at times. If you need someone to remind you how amazing you are, or even someone to help you through this change, I am a CTA Certified Life Coach and I am offering a free coaching session to anyone who wants one. Schedule Here.

If no one told you today, you are amazing! Change is tough, but you are tougher.

xoxo

Bri Elise