Embracing Change
Marta A. Gea Franca, MFT
Change is happening as I write this article. Change is inevitable and constant. Summer is ending, children are going back to school, teenagers are off to college, people are moving to different places and transitioning to new jobs and homes. Life is moving in a fast pace. In the media, we watch and listen to political, social and economic changes happening in this country and around the world.
All these changes can be overwhelming and can increase feelings of insecurity and uncertainty in adults and children. There are ways we can move through change without letting us be consumed by fear, stress and feelings of uncertainty. Here are three steps to assist you as you go through change in your own life.
- Honor your feelings.
Notice the feelings and thoughts that go along with the process of change. Pay attention to how your body feels when facing change in your life. Identify and recognize the feelings without trying 
to change them. Acceptance is key.
- Let go of what you cannot control.
There are parts in the change process that you may have control over, and there are other parts you may have not. The future is full of uncertainties. By learning to let go of what you have no control over will help you manage and decrease levels of stress and make the process of change less overwhelming.
- Develop a “being in the moment” attitude.
Mindfulness practice helps to bring attention to the present moment. By focusing on your actual breathing and paying attention to the present moment. You’ll calm your mind and body. Feelings of stress will decrease and you will be able to focus and think clearly about how to approach and manage the changes in your life.
Finally, developing gratitude can change the way you manage stress and anxiety related to life changes. Scientific studies suggest that cultivating gratitude carries significant benefits for our mental and physical health. So, take the time to focus on the positive aspects of life and you’ll feel better prepared to face the changes in your lives.
