With summer in full swing and the “hopeful” end to a global pandemic on the horizon, we are experiencing transitions of all kinds. Spending more time out, moving, starting a new job, entering higher education, engagements, weddings, having a baby, becoming an empty nester…
All of these transitions can be exciting, scary, sad, and any emotion in between! To help manage all of these emotions, here are some tips about how to handle a transition:
Have a set routine (morning/night)
As people, we are naturally designed to crave comfort and predictability. A daily routine helps keep some sense of normalcy despite a changing environment, relationship, etc.
Keep up with your hobbies/activities to do in your free time
An important part of self-care includes recreation and time for leisure. This time could be spent doing yoga, going on a hike, reading a book, playing an instrument, learning a new skill, or cooking a new recipe. Even if the season of your life is changing, your hobbies don’t have to.
Take time to reflect on the previous chapter of your life
If you’re feeling uneasy about the next step in your life, it can be helpful to reflect on where you’ve been and what you’ve learned. Once you’ve done this, it might be easier to consider what to look forward to! Consider making a list, journaling, drawing, or even writing a poem.
Prioritize spending time with people you love
Lean into the people who are consistent in your life. Whether you’re in the same area and can spend time together safely or you need to schedule a Facetime, prioritize those people who “fill up your cup.”
Recognize your expectations
Our expectations significantly impact how we experience and interpret a situation. Oftentimes, we don’t even realize what expectations we have until they aren’t met… Ask yourself: What am I expecting out of this next phase of life? Are my expectations realistic? Am I labeling my expectation with positive/negative value or am I remaining neutral?
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About the author, Mackenzie Dajani:
Mackenzie is a Resident in Counseling with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University and a B.A. in Psychology, providing counseling services at our Alexandria location. She also holds a Religious Studies degree from The College of William & Mary.
Mackenzie has completed internships working with diverse individuals, couples, and families. She has completed the majority of her residency in an inpatient behavioral health hospital. She has clinical experience and a particular interest in working with adults, couples, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, grief, and motivation. Mackenzie offers Christian counseling, as well.
Mackenzie provides a person-centered and holistic approach, utilizing strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, and Gestalt interventions. As a certified yoga instructor, Mackenzie values mindfulness and the mind-body connection.