Life transitions are one of my favorite topics to discuss and work through with clients. I particularly enjoy this type of work because it can be so fruitful and rewarding. Yet despite the positive opportunities that come with change, life transitions often involve a lot of uncertainty, newness, and fear. People sometimes get so stuck in fear that it can almost become paralyzing or crippling, preventing any movement.
"But what if I fail?" "What if what is on the other side is worse than where I am now?" "What if I cannot do it?" These are all common questions that go through people's minds. These are all, in fact, very important questions to address because at the core of these questions lie beliefs and narratives about yourself, including your ability to go through hard times, your self-worth, and even what you were told as a child.
Some questions to ask yourself are: what are your biggest fears? What would happen if you "failed"? What if you succeeded? What is preventing you from succeeding or getting through it? What kinds of transitions have you navigated in the past and how can you apply your experience and knowledge from that time to now? What are the narratives that you have about yourself as you navigate change, and where do these come from? What beliefs would you like to have about yourself instead?
Life transitions take many forms. A life transition refers to a significant change or shift in one's life circumstances, identity, roles, relationships, or environment. These transitions can be both anticipated, such as graduating from school or starting a new job, and unanticipated, such as the loss of a loved one or a sudden illness. Life transitions often involve adjustments in one's thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and routines as individuals navigate through new situations and challenges.
These adjustments are excellent birthing grounds for newness; there is space to change into the person you want to become or the environment that you want to be surrounded by. When you experience a change, there is also often a change in people, friends, or environments. That which is no longer in alignment with you will leave your life, making room for whatever newness is to come. In fact, the people around you who are stuck in their old patterns may get triggered if you are changing; take a moment to reevaluate who is truly there for you and who has different intentions.
Life transitions are just that - transitions. They do not last forever, but they are excellent opportunities to bring your life into greater alignment with your purpose and who you are. Leaning into your faith could be really helpful during this time (whether you believe in God, the Universe, a Higher Power, your higher self, Source, Spirit, etc.). Search for people who are on the same path as you and can offer you genuine support. If you need additional help, seek out a therapist or professional who can help guide you on your journey. Sometimes, change can be hard, and you do not have to figure it all out alone.
