Autumn is approaching. With that there is one guarantee: Change.
Your first child could be starting Kindergarten or your last one could be going off to college.
You may be beginning a new job, going through a tough phase of life or just preparing for the rhythm of shorter days.
When we are not prepared for it, even positive change can blindside us. Here are five intentional adjustments that can help you thrive during life’s transitions:
- Reinforce your Support System. Surrounding yourself with joyful, resourceful or helpful friends and family can be one of the most important decisions you make. Have lunch with a friend, a long phone conversation with a family member, or find a mentor who has already been through the same type of change you are experiencing.
- Exercise, Eat Healthy and Rest. This may go without saying, but change can be distracting and neglecting healthy choices can exacerbate the problem. Staying healthy will help keep your body and mind in check.
- Take time to Reflect. Recognizing possible stressors or giving time to observe your thoughts about your situation can be therapeutic. This may include keeping a journal, taking a quiet walk in the park, saying a prayer or just pausing to observe your inner thoughts.
- Be an Active Thinker. It is important to make the choice to focus on the positive aspects of life change. This involves active decision making and staying alert to rewire your negative thought patterns.
- Connect to Something Larger than Yourself. A great way to move out of a difficult time is to help someone else. Make time to volunteer somewhere, make a meal for a sick friend, or become a mentor for someone else who is also facing change.
Sometimes the stress of transition is more than we can handle in 5 simple steps. Steven Brand would love to help you with more in-depth processing and setting goals to achieve your personal best. To schedule an appointment, call him at (770) 641-8726.