Tools to Accept Change in Your Life

Change...it’s a word that strikes fear in the hearts of many. Yet, don’t most of us also crave it? If you’re thinking, “No way, not me!” hear me out. Would you like to find that dream job? That’s change. Are you looking for the love of your life? That’s change. A new house? New car? Meaningful friendships? Change, change, change!

And then, of course, there are the changes that are imposed upon us. Perhaps we lose a job, a relationship, or a friendship. Or we face a health challenge for ourselves or a loved one—or even a global pandemic. These changes, over which we often have little control, can turn our lives upside down.

But whether it comes about for happy reasons or more difficult ones, the fact is that change is a part of life. It is a part of our journey and integral to our growth. It is sometimes welcome and often inevitable. And no matter the circumstances, it is helpful for us to have tools and strategies to integrate change into our lives.

• TIME: Sometimes we have the luxury of time to adapt to a new circumstance, and sometimes we face a shocking new reality in an instant. In any event, it will often take our emotional bodies time to adapt to whatever is new. Allow this, to the best of your ability.
• GRACE: Be gentle with yourself! Understand that even positive changes can take us time to fully absorb and adapt to. Don’t resist it—I have often found that resistance will actually make the process harder and more difficult. Simple awareness of the effects that a big life change can impose upon us can be helpful—for me, it’s often moodiness, fatigue, and a feeling of overwhelm. Taking a little extra time to rest
• MINDFULNESS TOOLS: This is a great time to pull all of your normal practices out of your “mindfulness toolbag”. Meditation, journaling, movement, and spending time in nature can all help when processing new emotions and conditions. And maybe the change will encourage new or different techniques for you—that can be part of the fun.
• ACCEPTANCE: Surrendering and accepting a new circumstance sounds like the easiest of all stages, but I usually find it to be the toughest. This is especially true when facing a trial or challenge. But imagine how much stronger you will be if you harness your energy to face the challenge at hand.
• SEEK HELP: Sometimes, we just need the perspective and kind ear of another person. Friends and family can offer great support at these times. But so can professional therapists, energy healers, and counselors. They are trained to lend an impartial and objective perspective. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help.