Change, a natural part of life. From having a substitute teacher to weather changes, there’s always something going on that makes each day different from the last. These small changes are usually handled without a second thought, but when big things happen it may be harder to deal with… especially if it’s sudden.
The first thing to do, whether it’s before or after the change, is to acknowledge it. Which is different from simply knowing about it. To acknowledge means to accept, but it’s hard to accept what isn’t properly understood. So, how do you start understanding this new change? There are two aspects to consider delving through before you can understand and cope with this new circumstance.
One part is emotional. Sometimes being caught up in the shock or aversion of change just makes you feel “bad”. When you look deeper, there’s probably different emotions lingering there. Let’s say you’re moving. There might be feelings of loss because you’re leaving things behind. There also might be dread at meeting new people or settling into a new space; maybe anger at having little input in the decision. Once you have sorted out these feelings, you can work on managing them.
The other part is the consequences of the change, all the little things that change will affect. Moving may mean changing schools, routines, friends, and change in living situations. Thinking about all the smaller parts affected by one larger shift in your life can allow you to think about it in a way that isn’t so overwhelming, and make it easier to pinpoint what you’re trying to adjust to.
Now, once you understand your new situation, you can work on adapting and finding ways to cope. Take time to process your thoughts and emotions. Identify why you feel the way you feel. For instance, you may feel anxious about this change. Why? Perhaps it’s because you’re worried you won’t enjoy being in a new space. Now you have something to work with, and can start thinking about ways to solve the issue and ease your anxiety. Other things you can do are practice self care and find the silver lining of the situation. Do everything you can to assure yourself that you can navigate this new situation and then set yourself up to do so.
As for setting yourself up to handle change, one way is to set up or emphasize a routine. When things feel out of control, one way to combat that feeling is by focusing on the things you can control in a healthy way. It can help you feel more empowered, knowing that you can choose to do meaningful things on your own accord. It can also shift focus away from all the things that are out of your control. Something else you can do is get advice on your specific situation; Especially if it’s something fairly common but still significant, like deaths, major health changes, divorces, moving, or unexpected disasters. Sometimes it feels like you’re in a situation all on your own, but oftentimes there are people who can relate and empathize. For that reason there are so many resources to find support to steer you on a good path.
Change is inevitable. The more time you practice facing it, the easier it becomes to adapt to future predicaments. The more you handle tough things, the more confidence you’ll have to be able to face anything that comes your way. Then you can spend more time making the best of any future circumstance.
WRITTEN BY: Kris Sanders, Empowerteen Creative Writer Intern
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