Coping with Change and Life Transitions

Change can be one of the most terrifying things in life. Whether it’s expected or out-of-the-blue, a natural part of growing up or something out of your control, it can cause us to become stressed, anxious, or even scared. With the end of the semester in just a few weeks, many students are facing major changes and life transitions. Although you may want to fight the future, the best thing you can do is accept and embrace the changes to come – you may find it’s even better than you expected!

Here are some suggestions to help you cope with changes and life transitions.

• Be flexible. By now, most of us have learned that life doesn’t always follow the plan we create for ourselves. Be open to new experiences or ideas. Many times there are options we haven’t even considered.
• Be patient. We can’t expect to get exactly what we want, whether it’s a solution, outcome, or desire, immediately. We need to remember that things take time. Don’t rush things to get your results.
• Be persistent. If something doesn’t work out the first time around, don’t give up! Most of the time, the best things in life are things we have to work for. Even if it’s slow, continue to push through.
• Keep perspective. Look at events or phases in the greater, eternal context. This will help you reduce distraction and anxiety as you are able to see the overall picture.
• Be positive. Life is full of ups and downs! Our ability to have a positive attitude will help us even out these waves and help us live happily during any period of change. Smile, laugh, and have a sense of humor. Remember, “Life is to be enjoyed, not just endured.” (Gordon B. Hinckley)
• Have a purpose. Develop personal goals that you are continually working on. When you have a distinct purpose or vision, this will help you progress and move forward even when things seem out of balance.
• Be healthy. Continue with regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and sleep. These habits will combat stress, depression, and anxiety, and improve our mental and physical health.

Finding Joy in the Journey
President Thomas S. Monson
October 2008 General Conference

“Day by day, minute by minute, second by second we went from where we were to where we are now. The lives of all of us, of course, go through similar alterations and changes. The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in yours is only in the details. Time never stands still; it must steadily march on, and with the marching come the changes.

This is our one and only chance at mortal life—here and now. The longer we live, the greater is our realization that it is brief. Opportunities come, and then they are gone. I believe that among the greatest lessons we are to learn in this short sojourn upon the earth are lessons that help us distinguish between what is important and what is not. I plead with you not to let those most important things pass you by as you plan for that illusive and nonexistent future when you will have time to do all that you want to do. Instead, find joy in the journey—now.”

Sources:
Brenner, Abigail, M.D. "5 Tips to Help You Respond Effectively to Change." 5 Tips to Help You Respond Effectively to Change. Sussex Directories, Inc., 05 July 2011. Web. 09 July 2013. <http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/in-flux/201107/5-tips-help-you-respond-effectively-change>.

Creagan, Edward T., M.D. "Coping with Change: Stop Stressing and Start Adapting." WebMD. WebMD, LLC., 5 May 2010. Web. 9 July 2013. <http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/coping-with-change/MY01307>.

"Dealing with Change." APS Healthcare. APS Healthcare, n.d. Web. 9 July 2013. <http://www.washington.edu/admin/hr/benefits/publications/carelink/tipsheets/dealing-with-change.pdf>.