Tips for Transitions

I am not a fan of transitions. They stress me out.

I think that is why I like Sheldon (Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon) so much. He doesn’t let anything mess with his routines!

I have learned a few things that can make transitions easier though. And since transitions are everywhere, I thought maybe you would find them helpful too.

First, create some routines that you can stick to, even when things are chaotic. Can you do a quick dance before your shower? Maybe squeeze in a minute of laughing before brushing your teeth? Can you wash your face with cold water before bed (good for the vagus nerve)? What about taking three deep breaths before you sit down? The trick is to build in some short, easy practices that help ground you. Attaching them to things you are going to be doing every day will help you stick to it.

Second, don’t forget the basics – stay hydrated, eat regular meals, and get to bed on time. It may be tough to do but if I learned anything from being a parent, building those three things in can be a powerful way to keep your inner kid from having a meltdown.

Third, stay in the present moment. As tempting as it may be to leap forward, do your best to stick to what is right in front of you. The mind loves to search for additional stressors when you are already stressed. Don’t let it get away with it!

Finally, keep your heart open. Notice those precious little moments – the sunset, the dog wagging his tail when you come in the room, a comfy place to sleep, a shoulder squeeze from a loved one. Gratitude can make transitions easier.

So, how do you navigate transitions? Do you like them? Are they easy for you? I’d love to hear about how you are navigating your life shifts.

I’ll be here applying what I’ve listed above as we go through the changes leading to the move to our new home on December 5th. I started listing them all out for you, but it was stressing me out. Better stick to step three. Present Moment. Writing the newsletter. Got it . . .

Wishing you all a smooth transition into fall (or spring if you are from Australia).