It seems that everybody says, ‘the only permanent thing in life is change’ and we cannot avoid it. Even though we know to expect it, the act of making a big change is still scary and brings up all kinds of feelings. Some of these feelings are uncomfortable, while others are exhilarating. And if you’re thinking of making a big change, or going through one right now, you know that you’ll go back and forth between the positive and negative feelings throughout the process.
If you’re not sure what feelings may be coming your way, I’ll share five of the most important ones with you. Just remember, no matter what you’re going through, you’re on your way toward an amazing new chapter in your life.
- Scared
Change is terrifying, no matter how set you are on making a leap in your life. The unknown factor of making a big change can rattle even the coolest of cucumbers. Just remember to take deep breaths when you feel a wave of fear flowing over you and understand that this “before the change” period is the hardest part. Much like skydiving, once you actually take the leap, you’ll feel less scared.
- Nervous
In addition to feeling a general sense of fearfulness about the unknown, you may experience anxiety about your big change. Nerves can get you stuck in a loop of questioning yourself and your motives, or even try to convince you to back out of your decision.
However, you should welcome this opportunity to question yourself. If you can continue to combat the nerves with clear reasoning about why you’re making this change, you’ll be even more determined—and ready—to go for it.
- Judged
Chances are that many people in your life will have an opinion on the big change you’re making. Your parents, your best friend and even your partner may weigh in. Whether or not these people pass judgment on you for deciding to do something different with your life, you may perceive their words to be ripe with unsaid feelings.
This is normal! When you’re going through a major transformation, it’s easy to feel insecure and to perhaps read into things people say more than usual, or even to ascribe meaning where there may or may not be any. Try to stay open-minded and don’t jump to the conclusion that those around you are judging your decision if they don’t outright say so.
- Excited
Amid the negative emotions are the positive ones. If you’re making a big change of your own volition, you’ll likely be very much looking forward to the next chapter of your life—even if the prospect makes you nervous or scared. But even if your major change comes as a result of something you didn’t plan on (a death, a divorce, or another event) you may feel excited about seeing the light at the end of the tunnel—the new opportunity that awaits for you amid the darkness.
- Empowered
Making a big change makes you a total bad ass! Many people go through life just chugging along through the same old, same old, year after year after year. But, deciding to take a leap, whatever it is, can be very empowering. You’re taking control of your life and choosing a new path that is (hopefully) better aligned with your true self. And that’s something to celebrate.