Express your feelings to others, but do so in a polite way. If a loved one has passed away, let yourself grieve. If you’ve lost your job, let yourself feel mad and/or disappointed. If your community is changing for the bad, articulate that to friends.
Reframe the situation. Ask yourself some questions about the change. For example, you can ask yourself “Why am I upset or worried about this change?” Then, “What is it that I believe will happen as a result of this change?” And then, “Are these thoughts and beliefs accurate and realistic?” Going through these questions can help you to determine if the change is really worth worrying about. [3] X Research source List the things that you are grateful for in life. Among its many other benefits, practicing gratitude can help you to feel happier, sleep better, and possibly even overcome trauma. Practicing active gratitude is a great technique to use if you are dealing with a major life change. [4] X Research source Every day, try to write down 10 things for which you are grateful. Add to the list every day. You can start by listing basic things like a place to sleep, food to eat, a warm shower, friends, family, etc. Then, as your list continues, try to notice smaller things, such as a beautiful sunset, a good cup of coffee, or chatting on the phone with a friend.
If you have a death in the family, think about all of the family members you have left. Let the experience be one that binds you together tighter as a family unit. If you have lost your job, look at it as an opportunity to find a new job, a new career, or a new way of supporting yourself that brings you more fulfillment. If you are separating from your significant other, consider that there are reasons for that, and that both of you might be happier in the long run, and might be able to find more fulfilling relationships. [5] X Research source
Does the death of a loved one make you face your own mortality? Does social change give you a feeling of uncertainty and make you feel like everything you know about the world is falling apart? Does breaking up with a significant other make you feel as if you’re too emotionally fragile and lacking a support system?
Try to use change as a motivation, if possible. For example, if you lose your job, then you might use this change as motivation to go back to school or to pursue a career that you have always dreamed about.
Practice yoga. Meditate. Exercise.
Making yourself busy will help you move on and think about other aspects of your life. Making yourself busy might open new opportunities for you. Find a new hobby. Try something you’ve never done before! Finding pleasure in a new activity will help you enjoy life after the change. You will be glad you took the chance!
Another outcome might be that you find that others are as distressed as you when it comes to change. Knowing that others are in a similar situation might just give you the strength and gumption to accept change and move on.
Getting a better job. Exercising and becoming healthier. Traveling and seeing new places.
Volunteering for a cause that you think is important. Helping someone in need that you know. Adopting a homeless pet.
