How to Thrive During Transition

Life is a series of transitions, and whether we like it or not, change is an inevitable part of our journey. On your way to get married? That’s a transition. On your way to divorce court? That’s a transition. Welcoming a new baby? Another transition.

We may look forward to shifting careers and may desire the excitement of moving to a new city, but these transitions can also lead to major unwelcomed stress. Transition creates change and change always has some level of stress attached to it. So how can we minimize the stress we feel in times of transition and maximize all the “good stuff” that transition can promote? Well, in the most simplest of answers, you need the right mindset. Anything is possible with the right mindset, right? With the right mindset we can not only navigate through these transitions but also thrive during these transformative periods. I know what you are thinking, easier said than done right? Here are some ways you can adapt your mindset to help you thrive during any transition and help you avoid the stress.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset
One of the most powerful tools for thriving in times of transition is adopting a growth mindset. Dory from Finding Nemo has a great Growth Mindset when she most famously stated: “just keep swimming, just keep swimming”. Her focus was on just keeping going. Don’t stop, just go. Sometimes we get so in our head that we forget to keep swimming. Even though transition can bring forth stress it can also bring new opportunities for learning and personal growth. Rather than fearing the unknown, view transitions as chances to explore uncharted territories and expand your horizons. Embracing a growth mindset allows you to approach change with curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to adapt.

Embracing Uncertainty
Transitions often come with a sense of uncertainty, and it's essential to embrace this ambiguity rather than resist it. Recognize that uncertainty is a natural part of life and that it can lead to exciting new possibilities. Practice acceptance, mindfulness, and self-compassion as you navigate through the uncertainties, allowing yourself the space to grow and evolve.

Seeking Support
“You got a friend in me. You got a friend in mee!” Here I am with the animated movie reference again, but who said animated movies are just for kids? We all need friends when the roads are rough and when we are miles away from a nice warm bed. Who can you call for support? We aren’t meant to do life alone, especially NOT in a time of transition. During times of transition, it's crucial to seek support from your loved ones, mentors, or even professional counselors. Surround yourself with individuals who offer encouragement, guidance, and empathy. Sharing your experiences and concerns can provide you with valuable insights, new perspectives, and emotional support, making the transition smoother and less overwhelming.

Nurturing Self-Care
Self- Care is vital. Transitions can be physically and emotionally draining, making self-care practices more important than ever. Prioritize activities that nourish your body, mind, and spirit. Engage in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet, get sufficient sleep, and allocate time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of yourself will increase your resilience and help you maintain a positive outlook during times of change.

Visualization Technique
Visualization is a powerful technique that can help you stay focused and centered amidst transitions. Since we have already established that transitions can produce emotions we want to make sure you are producing the right ones. A positive, empowering emotion will serve you better than a disempowering emotion. Thinking of something that will anchor you to positive emotions is helpful in times of stress and transition. Here's a simple visualization exercise to support you during times of change:

• Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed.
• Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax.
• Visualize an anchor—a symbol or image that represents stability and strength. It could be a redwood tree, a lighthouse, or anything that resonates with you.
• Imagine yourself connecting with this anchor, feeling its deep roots grounding you and providing a sense of stability.
• As you breathe in, absorb the strength and stability of the anchor, allowing it to flow through your body and mind.
• With each exhale, release any worries, fears, or resistance you may be experiencing.
• Visualize yourself reframing the transition as an opportunity for growth, transformation, and new beginnings.
• Repeat this visualization exercise regularly, especially when you feel overwhelmed or uncertain. Allow it to help you find balance and focus as you navigate through the transition.

Transitions can be transformative and challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, they can also be catalysts for personal growth and fulfillment. By cultivating a growth mindset, embracing uncertainty, seeking support, nurturing self-care, and utilizing visualization techniques, you can thrive in times of transition. Remember, change is the essence of life, and by embracing it, you open doors to new possibilities and embark on a journey of self-discovery and resilience.