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  • Writer's pictureMichelle Gardner

10 Tips to Conquer Fear of Change: How You Can Gain the Confidence to Navigate Life Transitions

Life is full of twists and turns ...sometimes it just feels like we're along for the ride.


Some life changes, we seek. Some of those changes seek us out. But regardless of the situation, life transitions can be difficult for us to handle.


Why is that?


Because we are naturally prone to seek out patterns and keep things the same. It makes us feel safe and comfortable. So change completely goes against what our instincts want.


Everything in our bodies and minds are telling us to be scared, worried and doubt while going through life transitions. To stop it immediately because it's not safe.


You can conquer the fear of change though. Below are some steps to help you.


1. Be present in the moments.

When we're going through a transition in life, it's so easy to get wrapped up in worries and all of the what ifs that our minds create.


In meditation, we are taught to feel our emotions and observe them within our body (not judging "good" or "bad"). Then let them float away.


Rather than spending your energy focusing on fears about the future, try to keep your mind settled in the present. Allow yourself to enjoy these moments.


2. Allow yourself to grieve.

We often don't think about grieving when it comes to many life transitions. Grief is our response to loss.


Transitions can lead to many wonderful new things in life, but we also have to remember that we are losing the old ways that we've known.


Even transitions that seem to be positive can be difficult at times. Take moving for example. This can bring experiences like living in a new area, exploring new places, meeting new people. But there is still the loss of your old life, your home, your community, and everything that you knew.


So allow yourself time to grieve during this transition and find ways to cope with the transition process. Give yourself some grace.


3. Prepare, prepare, prepare.

Getting things in order and preparing before a life transition can be one of the best ways to smooth out the transition process.


Research. Make lists. Create goals. Journal. Seek professional supports.


These can all be ways to prepare for life transitions. The more you know and understand, the easier it's going to be when actually going through the transition.


4. Realize that transitions can lead to good things.

Transitions can lead to really good opportunities and so much growth in life.


If nothing ever changed in life then there would be no room for growth.


We can live our lives scared to ever go through any transitions ...or we could embrace change and realize that really good things come from transitions in life.


5. Remember the times you’ve successfully made it through a life transition.

Can you think of a time where you were so scared to do something ...but then you did it and everything turned out okay, right!?


Take transitions with school for example. Most of us get so nervous about these changes. Whether it's middle school to high school, high school to university or a career. But next thing we know, we're settled right in and watching the new people arrive.


Well, just remember that this transition is exactly like that. Our minds are quick to focus on the fears, worries and doubts. Just remember that you've been through this before and you will make it through again!