Practical Ways to Cope with Big Life Changes | by Toni-Marie Bonser
Life is filled with unexpected twists and turns. Whether changes are chosen or thrust upon us, they can initially feel daunting, but they also offer opportunities for growth. Having recently navigated some significant shifts in my own life, I've discovered some practical approaches that have helped me navigate uncertainty with more ease and optimism.
Focus on what you can control
Focusing on what you can control can provide a sense of empowerment amid the chaos of change. While it's natural to feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of change, identifying areas where you have influence—such as your thoughts, words, and behaviours—can help direct your energy towards meaningful action. By recognizing your sphere of control, you can approach challenges with confidence and shape your own narrative.
I found the sphere of control diagram useful for listing things out. I came across this concept in workplace training several years ago, and it stuck with me.
Establish a routine
Establishing a new routine can offer a sense of stability and grounding during times of upheaval. As familiar routines are disrupted, creating a structured daily schedule can help restore a sense of predictability and reduce anxiety about the unknown. Even simple habits like waking up and going to bed at the same time each day, setting aside time for activities you enjoy, and making and completing daily to-do lists can contribute to a sense of normalcy and routine.
Try out “slow living”
I came across this term on TikTok. Essentially, it means slowing down, doing less, and consciously spending time on the things that matter the most.
Up until a couple of months ago, my days were jam-packed and scheduled down to the minute from morning until night. Continuing this lifestyle felt overwhelming while going through big changes, so I experimented with “slow living”. I temporarily cut down my activity to focus on the essentials: my new job, sleep, and only pursuing hobbies every few days instead of every day. It was important to me not to feel like I was rushing.
Embracing the concept of "slow living" has been instrumental in helping me navigate recent big changes with intentionality. While slowing down was initially challenging for me since I’m accustomed to a fast-paced lifestyle, adopting a slower approach has allowed me to create space to get used to my new situation.
Make a gratitude list
Practising gratitude has been a powerful tool for shifting my perspective and cultivating resilience in the face of change. Amidst chaos and uncertainty, it can be easy to focus solely on the negative aspects of a new situation. By taking time to acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of our lives, however small they may seem, we can cultivate a sense of gratitude in place of negativity. Regularly listing the things we are grateful for not only helps us reframe our mindset in the short term but also fosters a lasting sense of optimism and hope in the face of adversity.
In summary, coping with big life changes requires a willingness to embrace uncertainty and adapt to new circumstances with confidence and resilience. By focusing on what we can control, establishing routines, embracing slow living, and practising gratitude, we can navigate transitions with confidence and optimism.
Toni is a Level 4 Business Transformation apprentice at Multiverse based in London and is writing for the Apprentice Lens. Here's more about her:
'She has spent the last 10 years working in the market research industry in various project management roles. She has recently pivoted her career, and her most recent roles have been tech and product-focussed. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, watching true crime documentaries, and sightseeing.'