C H A N G E. It can hit like a wave, especially when it’s unexpected, and if you’re like me, it can trigger that familiar “fight or flight” response. For most of us, this instinct leads to feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and sometimes even a bit lost. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to stay that way. There are steps to help you reframe, regroup, and find your footing. Recently, I went through an unexpected shift in my business setup, and the way I approached it taught me some valuable lessons that might be helpful for you, too.
Step 1: Slow Down and Look at the Facts
When you’re facing sudden change, it’s so easy to get caught up in your emotions. But sometimes, the most helpful thing you can do is pause, strip away the feelings (even if just for a moment), and look at the bare facts. Taking an objective approach can reveal a lot that emotions can cloud. For instance, I recently had to move my workspace in the blink of an eye, like, literally, the day after finding out! I had a full schedule of clients counting on me to be at the new location. These things happen and it couldn’t be helped.
What helped me most was not reacting immediately but instead breaking down what needed to happen and what resources were available to me. This approach opened doors I didn’t even expect—like finding a space that’s better suited for not only my current clients but also for hosting upcoming women’s workshops (PS: if you’re interested, leave your email to stay updated on these exciting events!).
Step 2: Say “No” When Needed and Let Yourself Process
Allowing yourself the space to acknowledge and feel that overwhelm is huge. You don’t have to jump right into solution mode. In fact, sometimes saying “no” to certain things during a chaotic period can give you the breathing room to recalibrate. For me, this meant scaling back and giving myself permission to feel stressed without letting it run the show. I reminded myself that, logically, things would sort out if I paced myself and didn’t overcommit.
Step 3: Spend Quality Time and Disconnect
During stressful transitions, I’ve learned that nothing grounds you quite like quality time with friends and family. I made it a point to put my phone down, chat, and just be present. A little distraction and emotional support can be incredibly energising when you’re feeling worn out by life’s twists (and maybe even a little glass of wine).
Step 4: Prioritise Self-Care
In times of change, it’s tempting to go on autopilot and focus on everything else but yourself. But I’ve found it helps to lean into self-care routines, even small things like winding down with a relaxing evening routine. These moments help balance your energy and remind you that taking care of yourself is a priority, even when life is anything but calm.
These are the steps that worked for me. Your steps might look a little different, but the goal is the same: to create a process that lets you slow down, review the facts, and manage each part with a clear mind. So, next time life throws you a curveball, try some of these strategies or think about what might work for you.