Welcome to that time of year where we see vast differences with the change of seasons. As trees bloom and flowers blossom, weather becomes warmer and it is lighter later in the evening. We begin to migrate outside and wake up from the darker, colder winter months. Spring signals changes in other areas of our lives too. The school year begins its slow movement towards the summer vacation. It is the start of graduation and wedding celebrations. We head to the playing fields for baseball, soccer and other outdoor sports. Invitations to banquets, bridal showers, reunions and graduations start coming in the mail.
Charles Dickens said this: “Spring is the time of year when it is summer in the sun and winter in the shade.” While many of us experience this temperature difference often in Spring, it is also true of the many transitions that we experience in this season – where we simultaneously enjoy the changes yet shiver with the expectation of what this means for the future.
It’s about how we manage transitions. Many people will say that they like life better when change is at a minimum. Yet, who really experiences very little change in their life? One of the sayings I use to remind myself that I have the power to control my reactions to transitions is “Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely.” Developing strategies to choose wisely is helpful
Here are some ways that you can use to help along the road to managing the changes that arise not just in Spring but in all the seasons of your life:
Not everything is in your control.
It is counterproductive to obsess about events and decisions that you can’t control. “I hope it doesn’t rain on graduation.” “What if my child doesn’t get in the school of their choice?” Instead, focus on your reactions. You can control whether you make something better or worse based on your emotions and behavior.
Be in charge of how changes will affect you
What can you do to prepare yourself for this transition? There may be decisions in this season of change that you can influence. What do you need to let go of? Sometimes we look too fondly at what life was like that we forget to spend our energy creating what life can be.
Recognize the symptoms of the “Neutral Zone”
Every day won’t be your best day. Some days don’t go as planned. Develop ways to take care of yourself when you are low on the mood elevator such as turning off the TV, staying off of social media and instead focusing on an activity where you feel valued.
Put your health and wellbeing first
It is always easier to care for others when we are at our best. Are you getting enough sleep? When was your last physical? When have you taken time to sit with good friends and enjoy their company? Have you included regular worship and spiritual care in your routine? What healthy step can you take this week to focus on your wellbeing?
Transitions can be exciting and scary. Sometimes it helps to talk to someone. Reaching out to Methodist Healthcare EAP at 901-683-5658 to schedule a free, confidential appointment can be a great start to navigating what comes next.
Welcome Spring!
Donna DiClementi, LCSW, CEAP is Director of the Methodist Healthcare EAP. Donna received her Master’s degree in Social Work in 1989. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional. Her experience includes EAP, hospital psychiatric and medical social work, crisis services and private practice.