Change is the only constant in life.” ~Heraclitus
This quote may have first been stated over 2,000 years ago by a Greek philosopher, but it couldn’t be more accurate for us today.
We all deal with various types of transitions as we mature. Here are just a few of the more familiar ones:
- Completing educational pursuits
- Beginning a career
- Getting married (or divorced)
- Becoming a parent
- Transitioning to a different career
- Retirement
- Dealing with personal illnesses
- Preparing for death
Along with these come many others during the in-between times. Life events start new chapters for us while others come to an end. Some are happy occasions while others are sad. Certain ones are planned while others are unexpected.
In Ecclesiastes 3:1 we read that phases of life are ever-changing. Deviations are considered completely natural and part of God’s scheduling: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Although transitional times are “normal,” they’re not always easy!
How to Prepare for Life’s Adjustments
Change your viewpoint
Rather than focusing on the stress that might come with the change, take on the challenge of seeking out its positive aspects. For example:
- Instead of having to meet a whole new group of people, think of all the new potential friends you’ll meet.
- Instead of fixating on the uncertainties about your new role, consider the new set of skills and knowledge you’ll soon obtain.
- Instead of not “knowing the ropes” at your new company, think about bringing a fresh perspective to the workplace.
- Instead of dreading the search for different venues to do business with (after you’ve moved to a new area), think about the variety of stores, restaurants, and adventures you’ll soon get to experience.
Share your excitement
Enthusiasm is contagious! Even with those who may try to squelch your joy, you can help turn attitudes around by pumping up your own eagerness level.
- If the change involves moving, talk with your children at the earliest appropriate time. Share with them several positive aspects of the pending adjustment especially as it relates to their personal interests: schools, neighborhood, entertainment facilities.
- Share with friends about your upcoming change and how excited you are to have the new opportunity.
- Create modes of communication with new coworkers through a few e-mail posts or possibly social media avenues—sharing your excitement about becoming part of their team in the coming days.
Demonstrate your gratefulness
Opportunities are blessings from God. We read in James 1:17 that “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” How can you show your gratitude for new changes in your life?
- Make the most of your new situation by getting involved full-on!
- Go beyond the expected to exemplary—in attitude, work, and relationships.
- Be part of solutions, rather than problems, in your new endeavors.
- Seek out opportunities to show encouragement and gratitude to others.
It’s true that life is all about change—both good and bad. The comforting part for Christians is knowing God does not change. He is the stable rock we can hold to as we make our way through life’s transitions.
Stay close to the Lord through daily prayer and reading His Word, as He promises to remain close to us. “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth” Psalm 145:18.