Accepting the Challenge of Transition: Great Tips to Start With

Lisa Franchi March 10, 2015

Whilst it’s true that nothing in this world is constant but change, going through transitions is never an easy thing to do. Making change often comes with fear, excitement, anxiety and uncertainty. Whether it’s about leaving your job to venture in a business, moving to another place, breaking up with your long-term partner, or living independently from now on, making change can really feel overwhelming. So don’t think it is you who have a problem. Everybody who faces transitions experiences what you are experiencing at the moment. But don’t worry, there are several things that can help you get through this change easily.

Ask “what if”… in a positive way.

One of the biggest challenges about going through transitions is having to answer all the “what ifs” in our mind. What if it doesn’t work out? What if things turn out wrong? What if you fail? The best way to combat negative thinking is to take those “what ifs” in a positive light. What if it is the big break you have been waiting for? What if it’s the opportunity to be happy and successful? What if doing it can help you know yourself even more? Always opt for the possibility that the change would be even better than the one you could have imagined or hoped for.

Go for it.

Taking risks can be scary. But oftentimes, they open the door to lots of opportunities. Not only that. It also opens the door to learning. If you take a risk and you failed, surely, you will learn a lesson or two. You can’t let fear stop you from making a change. Otherwise, you can get stuck there thinking and wondering what if you tried.

Make a plan.

When taking risks, you don’t just do it. You must plan it too. This is to increase the chance of getting a positive outcome from the risk you are taking. And when you plan it, don’t just think about it. Write it down. Putting it on paper makes it more real and achievable.

Practice.

The more you do something, the more you become familiar with it, and the less you fear it. This works well with making change. Try to do something different every day. Learn a new craft. Introduce yourself to someone, lead a group, or volunteer to take the meeting minutes at work. Savour and enjoy the thrill and joy of taking risks. It can be a great experience, really.

Prepare yourself.

Because going through transitions may be a tough challenge, it is important that you prepare yourself for it. Do a research, plan it out, and ask questions. Knowing that you are prepared gives you that feeling that you can overcome whatever challenge that goes through change.

Embrace change.

Lastly, embrace it. Change is inevitable. The best way to deal with it is to acknowledge it, accept it, and embrace it with open arms. Change can be overwhelming, but it can be worth it.