By definition, a transition is a process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.

In addition to the many details that usually accompany a transition (so many decisions, logistics, learning new things, etc.), transitions are also emotionally challenging.  We might feel nervous, anxious, unsure, or sad. We might be feeling lost and searching for answers.

We don’t like the uncertainty; we got so comfortable living life the way it was. The uncertainty makes the change seem scary.   And in many transitions, there are lots of holes that need to be plugged. Sometimes, it feels that these happen too slowly. So much happening all at the same time.

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Change is a part of life. If you start believing that things happen FOR you rather than TO you, you’ll see your circumstances from a more positive perspective. Whether these transitions occur by choice or default, you really are mentally strong enough to handle it. 

Firstly, recognize that you are in a transition and that it will be hard.  Don’t expect that it will go smoothly; even best-laid plans don’t go as expected.  When you know in advance that bumps will happen, they’ll be less jolting.

You’re going to experience feelings of anxiousness; it’s inevitable. Be forgiving of yourself when this happens to you. Don’t put a timeline on your feelings. (If you are going through this transition with others, recognize that they too may be anxious and some of what they do and say may be coming from their anxiety. Be forgiving.)

Try being comfortable with being uncomfortable. New and uncertainty are hard. 

Find the humor in the situation. There always is something to laugh at. (Even if it is just the absurdity of it all.)

Appreciate the new opportunities, the people you meet, the character building. Transitions are not all black and white; appreciate the gray areas too.

The newness and transition period will end as you settle into the next chapter.