The one thing that is constant in life is change.

You hear this statement often but unless you experience a big life transition yourself, the impact of the statement is different, somehow.

Starting a new job? Moving to a new city? Experiencing a loss or a death?

Big life transitions are hard – whether positive ones or negative ones. Many mixed emotions come into play – sadness, anxiety, fear, anticipation, excitement, apprehension. Some even experience depression and physical symptoms like headaches or even stomach aches and nausea.

Life changes are difficult but you need not just grin and bear them. There are ways to deal with them and cope.

Here are a few:

Focus on YOU. Make a conscious effort to plan self-care activities for yourself. Rest, take moments of quiet time, engage in healthy activities.

Reflect, Accept, Channel. Life transitions happen so give yourself a break and accept that as a reality. Feel the emotions that go along with it and find healthy ways to channel them – journal, meditate, seek counsel. Steer clear, though, of using unhealthy outlets such as alcohol or drugs and others. They will only put you in a worse place.

TALK to somebody and reach out for help. Big life transitions are hard to deal with alone. Find a friend, a mentor or a trusted person and reach out.

Life transitions are hard…harder still if you feel alone, helpless and powerless. KNOW that you can surpass and be proactive in dealing with them. They will pass and you’ll be OK.