by Gilmara Vila Nova-Mitchell
Whether it’s a personal or professional, transitions can be difficult, but they can also be moments of renewal and growth. The moments in my life that have taught me the most were the ones that involved transitions. From major events like marriage, parenthood, or a career change, to unforeseen circumstances like a job loss, a move, or a divorce; these shifts can disrupt our sense of stability. Transitions are an unavoidable part of our evolution. And whether you are navigating a planned or an unexpected transition, change has a way to make us feel vulnerable, overwhelemd and out of balance.
While we may acknowledge that change is unavoidable, that doesn’t mean we are always prepared to deal with it effectively. Each transition brings its own unique challenges, making it difficult to maintain our balance. It’s a paradox that we, as creatures of habit, exist in a world that is always evolving. But here’s the good news: though change can be overwhelming, we have the tools to help us navigate it and emerge stronger.
The key to navigating these transitions with grace and resilience is to embrace change as an opportunity to stretch and grow rather than something to fear. Transitions can be difficult, but they can also be moments of renewal and growth.
Here are some strategies to help navigate life’s transitions with a sense of stability:
- Embrace the unknowns: Transitions are often filled with unknowns, and it’s normal to feel unsettled. Rather than pushing these feelings away, lean into them. Emotions are part of the process.
- Be kind to yourself: Transitions rarely go according to plan, and setbacks are part of the journey. Take it one day at a time, and be gentle on yourself.
- Stick to a routine: Establishing a daily routine can help provide a sense of normalcy. Simple habits like making your bed, going for a walk, and having a morning ritual, can help you feel grounded.
- Shine a light on yourself: Attend closely to your physical and mental well-being. Sleep, nutrition, exercise, and staying connected with loved ones are essential to keeping your energy level high and staying healthy during a transition.
- Tackle one thing at a time: Feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty is natural, but focusing on small, manageable tasks can help you feel a sense of control.
- Work on your mindset: Rather than seeing the transition as a negative experience, try to view it as an opportunity for personal growth. Use the opportunity to learn a new skill or to become more self-aware. A shift in perspective helps keep hope alive.
- Be patient: Transformational change takes time. Set realistic goals and keep a steady but healthy pace.
- Take time to celebrate: Intentionally take time to slow down and recognize what you have accomplished and the work you have put in. When we identify milestones to celebrate we create a grateful mindset that can be very helpful during challenging times!
Life’s changes are unavoidable, but they can be a gift offering us a chance for personal growth, evaluation of important aspects of our lives, and an opportunity to step into the next chapter of our journeys with resilience.
Before You Go . . .
Question for reflections: What has helped you navigate transitions well? Where have you struggled, and what could you try to do differently next time?
For more information about Gilmara and coaching services here, visit: https://sarahnollwilson.com/services/coaching/leadership-coaching/.
Gilmara Vila Nova-Mitchell
Gilmara Vila Nova-Mitchell has been helping organizations and leaders become more effective and inclusive through her engaging diversity and inclusion professional learning sessions, leadership development programs, and equity & cultural proficiency coaching for almost two decades.
Gilmara has worked with HR managers, chief diversity officers, and other leaders to create more inclusive work environments. Gilmara has collaborated with organizations from the private and public sectors in various industries. Gilmara has supported organizations to develop strategic plans, create equity-driven monitoring tools, create inclusive cultures, and learn about equity-driven leadership.
Born in Brazil, Gilmara moved to the United States in 2001. She holds a Bachelor of Multicultural Education from FUMEC University (Brazil) and an MSE in School Counseling from Drake University. Gilmara has focused on her doctoral studies in Organizational Behavior with a focus on trust in the workplace.