Posts Tagged ‘change’
Living Well: How To Adjust To A ‘New Normal’ In Life
April 18, 2019
There’s no way to prepare for a challenging setback in life.
You don’t really know how a life-changing diagnosis will affect you until you are faced with it head-on. For some people, the uncertainty is almost as bad as the diagnosis itself.
Maybe you just received a diagnosis that you were not expecting, or perhaps you’ve been living with it for a while. It’s not the path you would have chosen. But here you are trying to navigate your “new normal” while balancing physical symptoms, doctor’s appointments, treatment plans, and schedules.
As you continue to navigate the waters of your ‘new normal’, keep in mind that there is no right or wrong way to feel. Everyone experiences change differently. These tips will help you stay grounded during difficult seasons of change and adjustment in your life…
Adjust Emotionally
A life-changing medical diagnosis often comes with a wide range of care and support from your healthcare team. It’s likely your physical health is in good hands, but too many neglect their emotional wellness.
Allow yourself to feel. Someone dealing with a life-changing diagnosis might experience periods of shock, numbness, denial, anger, disorientation, and emotional pain. Recognize your feelings and be kind to yourself!
Maintain Your Routine
Don’t let a diagnosis keep you from thriving in life! You don’t have to give up everything you once enjoyed…you just have to find new ways to enjoy them!
For example, you might really love your morning walk around the neighborhood with a friend. If you’re adjusting to a ‘new normal’ that prevents you from continuing your walk with a friend, invite them over for morning coffee on the porch. You can find ways to spark joy in life even if it requires change.
Accept Change
Acceptance is a process of ups and downs. Don’t expect your adjustment to happen overnight. It’s a transformative process that takes place over time. And, even thought you might not have control over your condition, you do have control over your reaction.
You can still live a rewarding and fulfilling life! Your ‘new normal’ might not be the path you would have chosen, but you are in control of what you’ll do next.
Life is a beautiful gift and each day is worth living. If you or a loved one needs support in navigating the waters of change in life, our team is here for you!
3 Ways To Feel More Confident With Change
October 2, 2018
As we approach the fall season, it always reminds me of change. Leaves are changing colors, kids are starting a new school year, and there’s a coolness in the air (maybe, if you’re in NC). Change is an inevitable part of life but it certainly doesn’t make it easier.
There are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ feelings to have in change. People feel scared, worried, sad, and even relieved or hopeful. Although feelings are fleeting, we absolutely can choose which ones to focus on. So, what’s the difference between someone who lets the fear of change take over versus someone who is confident with change?
Check out these 3 tips that make the difference in how you handle change..
Maintain your Routines
Often times when change happens, we focus so much on the change that we forget our normal routines. Simple things like going to the gym or having our morning coffee provides us with stability and comfort when other aspects of our life feel chaotic. These routines can also include healthy eating and sleeping habits.
Focus on what you CAN control
In change, it’s easy to worry and dwell on what we can’t control. For instance, maybe you are focusing on why you were laid off from work instead of what you can do next. Make a list of realistic actions steps. This will help to shift your focus and put you back in the driver’s seat.
Connect with Others
Most of us would agree that life is better shared. However, depending on our feelings about the change, it may cause us to isolate ourselves from our loved ones. It’s important to remember that because change is universal, chances are that someone you know has experienced what you are experiencing or at least can provide insight or support. Our loved ones know us the best. When we’re caught up in change, they can point out our strengths.
Feeling more confident with change? If you want to learn more, I’d love to walk with you on your journey.