Episode 115: When Life Is Different - Navigating Change With Grace
The Discomfort of Change
It all started with a profound statement from my 6-year-old daughter after she lost her first tooth. She looked up at me and said, "Mom, it feels weird when life is different." That simple observation hit me hard. This past year has been full of change—both in my personal life and professional life and I’ve felt that discomfort deeply. Change unsettles us because it disrupts the familiar—our routines, identities, and relationships. It brings uncertainty, a sense of loss, and an emotional mix of grief, nostalgia, and anxiety. But it can also open doors to new opportunities, fresh perspectives, and personal growth.
Finding Resilience and Perspective
One of the key things I've learned is the importance of acknowledging our feelings about change, rather than trying to push them down. It's okay to feel weird, sad, or resistant. But I'll also encourage you to look for the both/and - the mix of grief and excitement, the surprises and new opportunities that change can bring. Reflecting on past changes you've weathered, and leaning on your community of friends, family, and even professionals like therapists, can also be powerful tools. Even though change is inevitable we get to choose how we move through it.
The Beauty of Transformation
As much as change can be hard, it's also what allows us to grow, gain new perspectives, and experience the richness of life. I'll share why I believe embracing the seasons of change, even the difficult ones, is so important. It’s in those moments of discomfort and transition that we often find the most meaningful transformation. Change brings about new experiences, friendships, and opportunities that we wouldn't have otherwise. It's what makes life meaningful and beautiful, even when it feels weird or uncomfortable in the moment.
So join me as we dive into this exploration of change - the challenges, the resilience, and the beauty that lies within. I can't wait to hear your stories and perspectives as well. Let's navigate this journey together, and discover the growth that can come from embracing the changes in our lives.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Change Feels Weird—And That’s Okay. Discomfort is a natural response to change. Even positive shifts can feel unsettling because they disrupt what’s familiar.
Grief and Excitement Can Coexist. Change often involves both loss and opportunity. It’s okay to feel sad about what’s ending while also looking forward to what’s ahead.
Your Brain Craves Predictability—But You Can Adapt. We resist change because we’re wired for stability, but adaptability is a skill we build by leaning into uncertainty rather than avoiding it.
Find Small Anchors in the Unknown. During transition, grounding yourself in small daily rituals—like morning coffee, journaling, or an evening walk—can create a sense of stability.
Even Hard Changes Can Bring Unexpected Goodness. Some of the most meaningful growth happens in seasons of transition.
You Get to Decide How You Move Through Change. While you can’t always control what changes, you can choose how you respond—with curiosity, self-compassion, and an open heart.
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