What can I do to face my transition

Life changes and transitions can be some of the most challenging things that we face in our lives. Whether it means we are moving to a new city, starting a new job or relationship, or even leaving something or someone who was not right for us, feeling overwhelmed and fearful is typical in these times. Your insecurities are valid and know that many people have felt this same way.

For many individuals, time and adjustments will help combat some of the undesired feelings that come with transitions. For others, they may need to try some different skills or use different tools to make themselves feel better about the changes. Talking to a professional can be helpful and allow you to process your feelings while learning new ways to cope with what is going on. Therapists can support you in your goals and assist with sorting through some of the questions or anxieties that are troubling you.

If professional help is not an option, there are some basic things that you can focus on that can, over time, improve your thoughts about the move. Knowing that change is inevitable for everyone is a good place to start. This can make us feel as if we are not “the only one,” which provides comfort and safety knowing that we are not alone in our feelings.

Also, trying to make a list of the positives that came from your move can improve your view of the situation. This can be even the smallest things (like a new coffee place you discovered since being in NYC), or bigger things (like how you have met a new friend or colleague at work who shares your interests). Focusing on the positives can increase your sense of what is good about the move. When we are unable to stop focusing on the negatives, it can be more difficult to accept the changes. Try to make your list as long as you can, or even add to it daily or weekly and review it when you can.

Lastly, keeping some sort of daily schedule or structure can allow your brain and your body to feel safe and comfortable, knowing that you have a routine in place. Again, this can be as small as making your bed when you get up for the day or doing 10 minutes of yoga in the morning. The time, cost and activity do not necessarily matter in this example – it is more about the consistency that a routine can bring to your life to make you feel secure and safe.