I'm assuming that you clicked on this post because you're either facing a big change in your life or that a big change is coming. Some of you are graduating and starting a new job, moving across the country, transitioning into a new role at your current workplace, changing careers or changing directions personally. Right now, I'm facing lots of changes in my life. I recently graduated college, I'm buying a house (more on that SOON), and starting a new job. Regardless of what you are going through, I think we can all agree that change is inevitable and can be really scary. Especially for creatures of habit like me who love to have everything planned out.
I think humans innately want stability and get comfortable with what they know to be "normal" for themselves. Every once in a while I'll switch up my order at Chic-fil-a, but big life changes? Those are way harder to reconcile with sometimes. Here's my advice for finding peace and courage through life changes and how you can apply these tips to your life:
Let Go of Control
Change is uncomfortable, but so is fighting what's best for you. I believe as a Christian that "God works for the good of those who love him" (Romans 8:28) and that any circumstance can be in your favor depending on your perspective. Letting go of control is a liberating feeling. As your life changes, let go of having to know every detail and start trusting that God knows what is best for you.
"Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neale Donald Walsch
Worrying Doesn't Make it Better
When things start changing, my first response is normally to worry. Instead, I've changed (haha see what I did there) my first response to courage. Change often makes you give up something that you thought you couldn't live without. Having the courage to allow new things to enter your life can be empowering. How can you be more courageous next time something causes you to worry?
Change Your Perspective and Learn Something From It
Although change is scary, it can be extremely exciting. It all depends on how you look at the situation. Instead of settling for the safe route of being afraid and clinging onto what you've known to be your "normal", start looking at changes as gifts and something to learn from. Perhaps you'll start to get excited when life throws curve balls and you'll face them with confidence.
Be Okay With Not Knowing the Future
Find peace in the fact that we're all trying to figure out this thing called life. It's okay to have plans, but trust that God's will for you is far better than anything you could come up with on your own.
How can you embrace the changes in your life? Will you be fearful or face them with courage?
-mms