Coping With Change

Change Happens: 6 Steps to Coping Well When Life Takes a Turn

Coping With Change

 

Change is a part of life for everyone. Some people tend to do better with it than others. No matter what, though, you can’t always keep it from happening.

There are plenty of sayings that go along with the idea of change, including that it’s often “good”. Most changes do tend to go in a positive direction, but whether a change is good or not, it doesn’t automatically make it easy to cope.

If you’re someone who struggles with change, you’re not alone. But, there are things you can do to make it easier to cope with. Let’s look at some of the steps you can take to better handle the times when life takes a turn.

1. Acknowledge the Changes

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is trying to ignore change as it comes. When you fight against it, whether it’s good or bad, it will feel like more of a burden. Simply put, you can’t keep change from coming, so if you choose not to accept it, you’re making it harder on yourself. Acknowledge that a change is real, even if you don’t like it.

2. Understand It Will Cause Stress

Even when change is good, it can still bring extra stress to your life. Some examples include marriage or a new baby. Prepare yourself for that stress by practicing self-care and thinking about all of the great things that will come from the change.

3. Stick to Things You Know

There is comfort in familiarity when things seem to be changing all around you. If you’re having a hard time dealing with life’s sudden turns, stick to routines and things that are familiar as much as possible.

Again, that doesn’t mean you should ignore or avoid the changes that are happening. But, it’s okay to find comfort in the things you already know, too. It can make the changes seem smaller and less overwhelming.

coping with change

4. Take Care Of Yourself

Don’t let the idea of change overwhelm you to the point of not focusing on your wellbeing. Eat right and exercise, especially through times of change. Are you’re feeling unmotivated or down by the prospect of change? Ask a friend to hold you accountable when it comes to exercising and eating right. Having someone on your side can help you stay motivated and make a big difference.

When you feel good, strong, and healthy, you’re less likely to let the stress of change knock you down.

5. Think About the Good Things That Will Come From Change

Sometimes, it’s hard to accept change when all you can focus on is how different things will be. One way to cope with that is by making a list of all the “positives” that will come from a change. You might find that even the things you would consider to be bad can still have some benefits and bright spots.

By making an actual list, you can look back at it whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed, or that things are too different. You can also continue to add positive things as you think of them. Or, once the change occurs, add more to the list that you may not have originally thought of. Sometimes, changes can cause unexpected, happy surprises!

6. Ask for Help

If you’re really struggling with life’s changes, it is never a bad idea to talk to someone about it. Again, everyone experiences change, so it’s easy to find someone who can relate to what you’re going through.

In some cases, you might benefit from talking to a professional about how you can cope with the twists and turns life can sometimes throw at you. By focusing on yourself, understanding that change will occur no matter what, and learning how to ride along with it, you can better learn to cope through the good times and bad.

We are here to support you. Please contact us soon for a consultation and a new path forward.

New Perspective Counseling is a group practice dedicated to emotional wellness and healing. Our caring therapists provide psychotherapy, individual, marriage, and family counseling in our Highland, Michigan office. We are located conveniently near Milford, White Lake, Commerce Township, Holly, Hartland, and Brighton, Michigan.