We often use the words “change” and “transition” interchangeably. Although they are related concepts, they have distinct meanings. So let’s talk about the difference between the two…

Change refers to a specific event or situation that is different than what came before it…

Transition, on the other hand, is the psychological and emotional process that one experiences in response to change…

My last few posts have been about managing a big transition so it is all too apparent that it is taking up a lot of brain space. I was even reluctant to mention my move again. Frankly, I am sick of talking about it.

Here’s the thing…it just takes time to adjust and talking about it helps. And yes, you’ve heard me say this before but boy am I proof of how it works.

So let’s recap. First, acknowledge that you are having a tough time to yourself and to anyone who will listen. Second, think about…

It’s important to acknowledge a big change. Give yourself credit for what it took to make that big decision to change jobs, find a new career, relocate, retire and any number of transitions. And when it’s done, reflect on everything you did to then make it happen. It takes a lot of courage, energy, stamina, brainpower, and possibly a few tears to make a big change.

But what happens next? What happens on the other side of that change?

Setting daily intentions proved to be critical to my well being. It also made for a much more efficient and less stressful move. Oftentimes, I would set an intention to be productive and check off a few things on my to do list. When I was feeling overwhelmed, I would set an intention to feel calm which usually entailed taking deep breaths throughout the day.

I have come to realize a few things that help me make any major transition whether it is relocating, finding a new job, changing careers or any number of transitions.

There are a number of tools that I am using to get through any transition. First, I always remember the why. I am doing this for family and I’m doing this for me. Second, I set an intention every day on how I want to feel and what can I do to get me there.