Transitioning through life

Transitioning through life...

As we know, life is jam-packed full of milestones! Life IS transition. From childhood to teen years, to adulthood, to middle age-- from school to work, from no kids to kids, from empty nest to grandchildren, from job to job, location to location, making new friends, losing old friends, losing loved ones...health issues, financial issues, etc etc; and some aren't easy! However, to not transition, is to stagnate!

With each milestone comes a transitional period; each transitional period brings new stressors into our lives.

For example, when my children grew up and moved out, I faced an extreme sense of loss and change in identity. Being pro-active about the transition helped move me toward acceptance of this new season of life. It was a great time to rediscover myself and explore the possibilities for the second half of my life!

As with any life transition; retirement, starting a home based business, divorce, seperation, kids moving away, health, or financial issues the process takes time. Part of this transition involves establishing new roles, new responsibilities, new relationships, and a new perspective. The trick to adjusting to all this “newness” is in the attitude or perspective; overcome the challenge by looking at it as an opportunity!

A successful transition does not ‘just happen’, it takes time. Allow yourself a fair amount of time to adjust to the new arrangement before throwing in the towel, pulling your hair out, or resorting to anti-depressants! {The six month rule would apply here.} The key to a successful transition is to develop a new routine, re-define ‘roles’, consider all your possibilities, express creativity, and find some new hobbies or interests.

For me, the most helpful in adjusting to my new life was creating a new daily routine. For example, including running/walking and going to the gym daily. Those two activities occupy most of my mornings. These activities allow mental and emotional stimulation, as well as a chance to socialize.

And to express my creativity I took up writing again--and published two books!!

Adjustment comes in different ways for each of us; weight lifting/running is my thing, but might be the least activity you desire. There are many options available; volunteer or community work, clubs, or church groups. The key is determining what fits your personality, interest, needs, and situation.

As this is a sharing forum, I welcome any comments, suggestions, or insight for those struggling with such a major life transition.