Transitions
One thing we all have in common are transitions.
Life transitions are periods in life involving lots of change in your lifestyle. Transitions can happen as a choice and a vision, or they can be a part of something else, like a circumstance beyond your control.
There are actually several types of transitions. Here are four:
The Anticipated Transition
The Unanticipated Transition
The Non-event Transition
and The Sleeper Transition, the one that creeps up on you all of a sudden.
Transitions can be positive or negative. The most common element of a transition is that big change is coming that will likely change the trajectory of your life, or your life’s path.
Depending on where you are on that path, that change in trajectory could be a fastball. It could be a slow ball. It could be a curveball. It could be a home run!
I chose this topic for June because lots of things happen in June. Things like graduations and moving and finishing school or getting ready to start school. There could also be relationship or job changes, family additions, or the loss of someone in your family.
According to psychologists, there are 2 promises bout transitions.
Life changes are only as stressful as you make them. Your response is based on your perception of the transition.
There are many factors out there that can cause and lead to change.
I want to give you what’s known as self-care skills for mastering transitions! We’re always going to have change and transition in our life, so it’s important to take care of ourselves through those changes.
First, experts tell us that people who deeply understand their values and vision find it easier to weather the storm during transitions.
What is your vision for life? What do you want? What do you look for in the future? Not sure? Try journaling about it!
On that note, here’s the first self-care skill I have for you.
Make consistent time to write your thoughts and feelings down! Take it from inside your head and put it on paper so that you can see your values more clearly when you revisit what you’ve written. What are your thoughts and concerns? What do you want to achieve?
Sit in a quiet place and contemplate. Some call this meditating. Breathe in and exhale. Take time for yourself and enjoy your breath!
Talk about these ideas with a confidant and a mentor. I’ve spoken before about how everyone needs these two people in their life. They could be the same person, but two are recommended. Discuss your values, visions, accomplishments, and concerns.
Develop positive habits. A positive habit, like drinking enough water, taking a walk, going outside and breathing in the fresh air, will strengthen you and support you during times of change and transition.
I’d like to leave you with a quote.
There is indeed a time for all things under Heaven, and for all great rites of passage: weddings, funerals, graduations, and retirements. A time for anniversary and reunions. For sunrise and sundowns. For moon and rain and stars. But in the meantime there is an infinite moment: a time to do the dishes and a time to walk the dog.