Stories > What about the other transitions in life?
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What about the other transitions in life?
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By Megan Norton
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In the TCK journey, there are mentors, parents, professionals, and programs that can walk you through the importance of RAFT (Reconciling, Affirming, Farewelling, Thinking Ahead) in significant transitions (like moving from one country to another). It’s important to expect and acknowledge the transition stress.
But what about the other transitions that come and go in and through life? Like the ending of a semester or the beginning of a new relationship; the unexpected transitions and the ones out of our control that create “new normals.”
In other life transitions, these are some transition principles and pointers to consider:
1. In transition, name the loss.
Having an awareness of what you may be losing in the transition (for example: routine rhythms, relationship proximity) can help you to orient yourself to know what it will mean for your time and energy. Giving yourself permission to grieve the loss and to comfort yourself are important steps in the transition process.
2. In transition, concentrate on the things you can control.
In university, one of the changes students don’t have much power or control over are the policies. In the pandemic era, there seem to be steadfast changes to policy and campus procedures. This can be frustrating especially when trying to make long-term plans with friends and family. In the transitions, it’s important to focus on what is in your own circle of control; beginning with your emotions and reactions to change. Having healthy ways to cope and to process through change can be really beneficial. The good news is: you have options for healthy coping strategies! Discover what works for you and have accountability partners to help you focus on them.
3. In transition, re-consider previous goals.
Sometimes with transition comes the necessary process of tweaking goals. If self-expectations are set too high or the time to hang out with friends needs to be shortened, ensure that how they are reconsidered continues to give your life meaning and balance. When transition seems messy and ambiguous it can heighten anxiety. Instead of looking at the entire laundry list (or laundry in the basket!), focus on one thing to accomplish. Prioritize and check off one thing at a time.
There are both micro and macro transitions in everyone’s life. From daily pivots to relocations, it’s important to be present with the choices to name the losses in change, to concentrate on things you can control, and to reconsider goal timeframes. In transition, always have someone to walk with you in and through it.
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If you need someone to talk to during your transitions, reach out to your MuKappa Chapter on campus and/or MuKappa leadership. MuKappa is here for you!