There are times in our lives where it is inevitable to avoid any kind of change. For example, going away to college, starting a new career, or entering into adulthood. All of these moments come with changes that can feel really big and scary. It is easy to fall out of the regular routine that has been in place for some time. I find myself feeling more anxious and stressed when my routine seems like it has been turned upside down. I am about to finish up my internship and complete my final two classes for my master’s program. Once I graduate, I am entering into the adult world. The thought of that is intimidating. However, I have a few things that I like to do when changes are approaching in order to feel more stable and confident in myself.
The first thing that can be helpful when going through a change is to take a step back and ask myself, “How can I make today easier on me?”. Sometimes that looks like taking the day to watch your favorite tv show or taking a break from work, if possible, for an hour and walking outside to get some fresh air. It is easy to get wrapped up in all the things that come with change that make our bodies feel like they are on overdrive. It is important to take care of yourself. One thing I am working on is asking for help. As someone who tries to do everything on her own, it is difficult for me to speak up when life starts to feel heavy. I am quickly learning that life can be just a sliver easier when you accept help from others.
The second thing that can be helpful is trying to integrate even the smallest part of your routine into your day while going through change. Whether you have one ritual in the morning or a five step morning routine, attempting to do something that is your “normal” can make the change not feel like it is ruling over the things that make you feel good and set your day up for success. One of the things that I try to keep consistent is walking my dog in the morning. It is what gets me out of bed and gives me some early morning movement. If that is the only thing I do, I am very proud of myself. If I can encourage you, reader, to do anything, it would be to pick something from your routine and make a conscious effort to make it happen in the midst of working through a life transition.
The final thing that can be helpful is giving yourself grace and compassion. Sometimes all we can do is get through the change to the best of our ability. It doesn’t matter how productive you have been with your day or how well you are working through a life transition. You deserve to give yourself grace. Treat yourself with kindness and remind yourself of all the changes that you have made it through before. Take a deep breath. It is important to not be so hard on yourself. We can be our own biggest critics but I am here to remind you that you are amazing!