How to Deal With Life Transitions

When I decided to specialise in Life Transition Counselling, I would have never considered a transition like the one the world is experiencing. COVID-19 has meant change for all of us.

It has affected the way we perceive our health. It has changed the economy, habits, freedom to gather and travel, and our sense of security.

It has created a profound sense of uncertainty for everyone.

Coping with change

As a consequence, COVID19 makes us realise rigidly, that nothing is definite. No matter where we are in our lives, we know it will change in some way or another. For the most, this is an uncomfortable prospect. How we cope with change depends on our flexibility to adapt. Being flexible doesn’t mean you need to have it all figured out.

It’s more about being open and willing to see things differently.

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”

Lao Tzu

Transition and emotions

Transitions are difficult, so it’s not surprising they come with challenging emotions; the most common are:

Fear

Considering the situation, this is not surprising. Feelings of apprehension about the future, wondering how you will face the changes ahead, or the preoccupations about your family's health.

Instead of running away from fear and avoiding it, accept this feeling. Be present for it. Be curious about how it feels. Even if it sounds scary, being open to the feeling and letting it flow through, you will allow it to pass more easily. No feeling lasts forever, but our resistance to feelings can make them stick around for longer.

Anxiety

Anxiety is another common reaction to life transitions. A sense of loss of control often triggers it. We get stuck in thinking of what we can do to change the situation and get overwhelmed by the chaos. Accepting we cannot control everything and let go of this need is the first step.

Another great tool to deal with anxiety is mindfulness. Focusing on the present moment, becoming aware of your body sensations through breathing exercises, allows you to learn how to have better control over your way of thinking.

If your anxiety becomes too overwhelming, then additional support like counselling is strongly suggested.