Navigating Transition : Support For Embracing Change

Life is a series of transitions. From moving homes to changing careers, and from personal growth to major life milestones, transitions are an inevitable part of the human experience. While change can bring excitement and new possibilities, it can also be accompanied by a sense of loss and grief.

Let’s explore the concept of transition, including some insight into how even positive changes can involve grief and uncomfortable emotions. We will also acknowledge the importance of rest during the transition process, which is often overlooked when going through the busyness that often accompanies significant change.

In my last blog post, we explored loss and grief. When we think of grief, we often associate it with the loss of a loved one. However, grief can extend beyond bereavement and encompass a wide range of emotions experienced during any transition. Positive changes, such as starting a new job, getting married, or relocating to a dream city, may seem like moments of celebration. Nevertheless, they can also trigger a sense of disenfranchised grief, where you may feel guilty for experiencing sadness or a void amidst these positive shifts.

For example, moving to a new city might bring excitement and adventure, but it can also involve leaving behind familiar places, friends, and routines. This may lead to disenfranchised grief, as you feel there is no space to grieve the life left behind when you feel expected to celebrate the new. Recognizing and validating these mixed emotions is crucial in acknowledging the complexity of transition and grief. By acknowledging disenfranchised grief, you create space to express emotions freely and seek support during times of change.

Whether positive or challenging, transitions require significant adjustments and energy. It's essential to acknowledge that going through a period of change can be tiring both mentally, emotionally and physically. Rest and self-care become indispensable during this process. Feel free to read through the types of rest on my Instagram page to determine which type of rest you would like to incorporate as you move through this change in your life.

Finally, transitions are unique to each individual, and the support needed during these times varies. However, there are a few universal steps we can take to support someone undergoing a significant life change:

Offer Empathy: Listen actively and validate their emotions. Understand that even positive transitions can bring feelings of grief and loss. By acknowledging their experience, you create a safe space for them to process their emotions.

Provide Practical Assistance: Offer practical help, such as organizing their new space, helping with paperwork, or providing transportation. Small acts of kindness can alleviate some of the stress associated with change.

Encourage Self-Care: Remind them of the importance of self-care and encourage them to prioritize rest. Share strategies that have worked for you during transitional periods and provide resources such as books, articles, or support groups that can assist them further.

Recognizing and honouring the complexity associated with transitions is vital for your health

and well-being. By acknowledging the grief and emotions, embracing rest, practicing self-care, and offering support to those in transition, we can navigate these periods together.

Looking for some additional support? Let’s connect!