Transitions are changes that happen from the moment we are born and throughout our lifetime. Some transitions are expected; i.e. a broken relationship or lost job. Tips to manage transitions include:
Prepare: anticipate when a transition is expected and prepare for it; plan for how best to deal with the unexpected changes
Plan: develop a plan to deal with the transition; i.e. adjust schedule, ask for help, try new approaches to the change
Punt: be willing to be flexible in how you approach the transition
Practice: try new approaches to the change and know that new habits and behaviors take time – keep on until you get it right!
Communicate: acknowledge the transition and ask for help when needed
Celebrate: look for the good in the change and if you can’t find it, don’t give up!
Control: recognize the things you can control, which is your response to the situation
Positive Transition Responses
Teach – your child how to handle change, i.e. model the behaviors you want to see
Adapt – your environment to adjust to the transition, i.e. childproof your home, establish a bedtime routine, etc.
Adjust – your schedule to accommodate an early wake to to get to your new job or your child to their EHS classroom
Allow – for mistakes and time to deal with the transition
Train – yourself and your family to live with the transition
Create – new relationships that are supportive of your transition
Patience – be patient in your transition process, adjusting to change takes time
Accept – that change happens and you can handle it!
Laugh – give yourself permission to laugh; don’t take yourself too seriously!
Life is one big transition!