Accepting the changes, learning and trusting the process: Tackling the transitions of life

Life is an endless journey of transition. From the outside, these changes happen in the blink of an eye. The small internal transitions of daily life happen quickly. However, the more significant milestones, such as career, marital status, or moving abroad, are part of these insignificant everyday processes. Emotions like fear, sadness, anxiety, or overthinking often accompany these transitions.

Transitioning refers to physical and psychological changes while adapting to new circumstances. For example, moving abroad is a form of physical change.  However, the journey also includes leaving behind friends and family, adjusting to cultural shocks, and finding a new identity, part of a more profound emotional journey.

Life's transitions can be divided into the beginning, the in-between, and the ending. One must let go of the present to make room for newer events.

Letting go is scary, uncomfortable, and uncertain. However, embracing a new identity and disengaging from previous roles is necessary.

Drawing an ending often brings disorientation and loneliness. When we can completely change from our previous ways, then a new beginning will start to fall into place. Beginnings are sometimes dramatic. It may be a small step towards the ultimate greatness of life.

Dividing the transitions into segments is easy in theory but more challenging in practice. Even when changes are predictable or expected, they can feel heavy. 
Starting school, college, or university is a step towards becoming self-dependent and learning social intelligence. Entering the workforce brings financial independence and teaches responsibility. Marriage is about staying committed and walking towards shared plans.

Parenthood is one of the most significant shifts in life. Becoming a parent and nurturing a child may come with anxiety, doubt, exhaustion, and even depression from losing a self-identity.

Changes in career or relocation to a new place, whether by choice or force, affect our standard of living and even confidence. Leaving the workforce brings a massive change in daily routine, and many retired people feel purposeless. Financial gain or loss leads to a change in standard of living and social status.

It takes a lot of courage to come out of a broken relationship. Divorce or separation means the end of all shared dreams and having to restart again. Deteriorating health changes lead to financial crises and low self-esteem.

Ageing is a constant change that continues throughout life's ups and downs. In the fifties, life feels different than it does in the twenties. And that is the most significant reality of this ever-transitioning life.

The most essential tool for a smooth transition is acceptance. This means controlling emotions, stopping hating oneself, and moving on gracefully. Trusting the process is a must.

The discomfort of standing between the security of the past and the uncertainty of the future lies in a chance for growth and a better future. To embrace the changes, one must release their grip on the past and have an optimistic mindset.

Making fun of tricky situations keeps the heart light. Attaching oneself to anything temporary is harmful. A good sense of humour can neutralize much pain along the way.
Focussing on personal growth, desires, and ambitions is the way forward. Being busy will save us from negative thoughts. Discover oneself under new circumstances. We are seeking opportunities for new experiences. Experience teaches us to think outside the box and thus enriches our understanding of life.

Adversity makes a person more resilient and more robust. The confidence from overcoming challenges helps one face future transitions with a calmer mind.

It is essential to acknowledge that everything is temporary and that life is ever-transitioning. Change is never easy, but having a solid support system, whether that is family, friends, or colleagues, can make the journey a lot easier. These connections provide the comfort, relief, and warmth needed to survive. 

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