Many people fear transition. However, it is possible to use a period of transition as a way to change your life for the better. When we find ourselves in situations that either make us unhappy or are simply unsustainable, our strong feelings about the situation can generate a sense of momentum and purpose. This transformational momentum allows us to surge forward towards the change we so deeply crave.
Here are some tips for how you can use a major life transition, such as an upcoming big move, to replace bad habits with positive ones:
Getting Focused
If you’re looking to harness the power of transition to transform your life, it can be helpful to start by getting some clarity and focus. Ask yourself the following questions:
Who do I want to be? What type of life do I want to have?
Who am I? What type of life do I currently have?
What is the difference between the life I have right now and the life that I want to have?
What steps do I need to take to get there?
Home environment
From being uprooted to having to get settled into a new location, it’s no secret that moving is tough. Take this as an opportunity to make your new home environment a health environment. One way you can do this is by making your home environment as stress-free, healthy, and tidy as possible. These changes will lead to your home being a happier environment.
Social Connection
If we are making a cross-country or long distance move, we may worry about leaving our loved ones behind. We might even wonder whether people will like us or whether it will be difficult for us to make new friends in our new location. These types of concerns are very understandable. Humans are social creatures, and recent research has shown that the brain cannot differentiate between social pain and physical pain.
Although it can be uncomfortable at first, be patient with yourself. After a big move, it will take you some time to make friends, find a new social activities that you love, and explore your new neighborhood. Over time, you will begin to make new friends while (hopefully) also nourishing your existing relationships. This will boost your overall life satisfaction, reduce feelings of loneliness, and might even boost your immune system. In the words of behavioral researcher, Vanessa Van Edwards, “Connection nourishes us and makes us better humans.”
Mental Health
Your home environment and social connections also play a role in your mental health. As part of the healthier choices you are making, you might also consider ending any toxic relationships – or at the very least, start implementing some healthy boundaries. This will help you reduce stress, fatigue as well as contribute to overall happiness.
In conclusion…
To conclude, there are many benefits to transitions. As you’ve hopefully learned after reading this article, the current and upcoming changes in your life will build character and push you beyond your comfort zone. This provides you with an important gift: the unique opportunity to make some real changes and see positive transformation in your life.
With SpiritFinder, Ms. Scott offers a forum where those living with anxiety and depression can discuss their experiences.
