Change is messy, unexpected, and downright uncomfortable. Whether it’s a new job, moving to a new place, or even the end of a relationship, big life changes can knock you sideways. Human beings are wired to seek comfort and routine, so when life throws a sudden change our way, it’s no surprise that we feel overwhelmed, anxious, or lost.

But here’s the thing—change is inevitable. Whether it’s a positive change, like an exciting career opportunity, or a negative change, like a health problem, every type of change impacts us. And while spending time wishing things could go back to normal is tempting, the best way forward is learning how to cope, adapt, and grow.

This is especially true in times of transition, when our social connections, daily routines, and even our mental well-being are tested. We’re living in a world where social distance, unpredictable events, and life-altering situations happen more frequently. Maybe you’ve noticed it yourself—young people, in particular, are facing more pressure than ever to handle big life changes with grace, all while navigating feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.

Whether you’re dealing with a good change, like moving to a new city, or a challenging one, like coping with the loss of a family member, it’s crucial to recognize that every new situation requires emotional adjustment. And while life transitions can feel like they throw your whole life off balance, there are ways to get through even the most stressful changes.

So, what’s the best way to handle change? You can fight it, or you can lean into it. Spending time trying to avoid the inevitable won’t stop it. Instead, let’s talk about how to deal with big changes in life—because they’re coming for all of us. With the right mindset and strategies, even the most difficult shifts can have a positive impact on your mental wellbeing. Here’s how.

1. Acknowledge the Change (and Your Feelings)

Here’s the deal: avoiding your feelings is like ignoring a leaking faucet—it just gets worse. When a significant change hits, whether good or bad, feel it. Negative emotions? Yep. That sinking feeling of unease? Totally normal. Maybe you’re excited about the change, but then doubt creeps in. You’re not broken. You’re just human.

Whatever you're feeling, name it. Don’t stuff it down or put on a "positive vibes only" face. Recognizing how you feel is the first step to handling the situation.

2. Flip the Script: Embrace a Positive Mindset

Our minds love to default to automatic negative thoughts, but the truth is, there’s usually a good thing hiding in the change. Maybe your current situation isn’t perfect, but cognitive reframing can help. That new job? A chance to grow. Moving to a new city? A fresh start.

Sure, big changes can bring negative effects, but there are always positive things if you look for them. The best way to approach it is with a mindset shift: find the opportunities, even in the chaos.

3. Take Small Bites of the Big Change

Overwhelm is real. When life flips on its head, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning. So, break it down. Small steps make big changes manageable. Got a huge move coming up? Start with the little things—one box at a time. New routine? Change one part of your daily life first.

Small wins give you a sense of control, and that’s powerful when everything else feels shaky.

4. Stick to Your Daily Routine

Big change disrupts our daily lives—that’s a given. But here’s a tip: hold on to your routines. Even if it’s just keeping your morning coffee ritual or squeezing in a short walk, these small routines create a feeling of stability. A regular schedule can anchor you in the storm of life transitions.

When everything feels up in the air, a little structure in your everyday life can work wonders.

5. Lean on Your People (Or Find New Ones)

Here’s the truth: you don’t have to handle this alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a family member, or even a social media group, connecting with others can ease the burden of major changes. It doesn’t matter if you’re texting or hopping on video calls—extra support is everything.

Humans are wired for connection, and in difficult situations, social support can make the difference between sinking and swimming. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

6. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone (It’s Where Growth Happens)

Big changes often force us into places we never wanted to go. But guess what? That’s where growth happens. Sure, stepping outside your comfort zone feels awkward—maybe even scary—but it’s the gateway to something new.

You don’t have to jump in headfirst. Just take small steps. Trying something new, even in a contradictory way to how you usually operate, is a good way to expand your boundaries and adapt to change. You can’t stay where you are and grow at the same time.

7. Be Here Now: Focus on the Present Moment

The past is done. The future’s a mystery. The present moment is the only thing you’ve got. That’s where you’ll find calm during stressful times of transition.

Mindfulness can help cut through the negative feelings and feeling of unease that come with change. Try something simple—like deep breathing or noticing what’s around you. It helps ground you and reduces anxiety, so you can handle whatever’s coming next.

8. Get Help When You Need It

Let’s be real: sometimes, dealing with major life changes requires more than just grit and willpower. If the stress response is too intense or you’re feeling stuck, it’s time for some professional help. Therapists, life coaches, and mental health services exist for a reason.

There’s no shame in reaching out. Whether it’s group meetings, text-based sessions, or a support group, a little extra help can go a long way. You don’t have to go it alone, and sometimes the smartest move is knowing when to get outside help.

9. Move Your Body, Heal Your Mind

Staying active is one of the best things you can do for yourself in times of difficult situations. Whether you’re facing unexpected changes or a big transition, moving your body helps clear your mind. Numerous studies show that exercise reduces stress and boosts your mood.

This isn’t about hitting the gym every day. Simple movement—like walking, stretching, or yoga—can make a huge difference. Physical health and mental health go hand in hand. Take care of your body, and your mind will thank you.

10. Be Kind to Yourself (Change Takes Time)

Let’s face it—adjusting to a new reality doesn’t happen overnight. Give yourself the time and space to process, and don’t expect to have it all figured out in a short period of time. There’s no rush.

It’s okay to feel like you’re not handling it perfectly. Life’s full of difficult times, but you don’t have to be hard on yourself through it. Be patient. You’ll get through this. Focus on the little victories, and celebrate each step forward. Over time, you’ll adjust.

Conclusion

Change is scary, uncomfortable, and often messy, but it's also an inevitable part of life. Whether you’re dealing with short term adjustments like moving into a new place or long term transitions such as navigating a new way of living after a major loss, the key to handling change is learning how to adapt without losing yourself in the process.

When we face big life changes, it’s easy to slip into avoidance coping or get caught up in negative changes and negative feelings. But you don’t have to go through it alone, and you certainly don’t need to have all the answers right away. There’s a reason why health professionals and mental health services exist—to help you work through complex emotions, develop a treatment plan, and offer emotional support when it all feels like too much. Sometimes a little extra help from trusted friends, group meetings, or even phone calls with professionals can make the difference.

We all have social needs, and even during difficult times, reaching out can give you the strength to handle the bad things life throws at you. And while some changes—like a sudden loss—are hard to categorize as a good thing, they can still create opportunities for growth, connection, and healing if you allow yourself time to adjust.

Remember, change takes time. You won’t master a different routine overnight. Give yourself space to process the shift and be kind to yourself when it feels tough. Life’s biggest lessons often come from the most uncomfortable experiences, and those moments of struggle are what help you develop greater control over your emotions, your mindset, and your overall outlook.

So, when life throws an unexpected twist your way, take a deep breath and embrace it. You’ve got the strength and resilience to not just survive change, but to grow through it. With the right tools—like leaning on social connections, seeking help from mental health professionals, and developing a more positive mindset—you can turn even the hardest transitions into opportunities for a positive impact on your life.

*Hey, if this post resonated with you, share it with someone who might be navigating big changes in their life. Let’s help more people embrace life transitions with confidence and resilience. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the tools to grow through change, no matter how overwhelming it seems. Good luck on your journey to handling life’s twists and turns—you’ve got this!

​Extra Resources to Help You Master Life’s Big Changes

Looking for some fresh reads to help you navigate the times of change? These books are a great way to tackle the chaos, find balance, and get through big transitions one step at a time—because when life shifts, it’s the small things that make all the difference.

The Crossroads of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion by Elle Luna
Caught between what you should do and what you must do? Luna’s got your back. This book is all about finding your passion while juggling the demands of everyday life. It’s perfect if you’re feeling stuck in similar situations where you’re torn between the status quo and what you really want. It’s a reminder that in these times of change, choosing your “must” over your “should” is the most important thing.

The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do by Jeff Goins
Goins shows you how to follow your passion without letting much pressure or uncomfortable feelings stop you. This book is all about balancing your dreams with the realities of life, especially when you’re in the middle of a major transition. If you’re navigating adjustment disorder or just overwhelmed by change, Goins’ advice will help you find your way while keeping your personal life intact.

Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Life changes can make you feel like you’ve lost control, but Burnett and Evans offer a great way to design your life, step by step. Whether you’re dealing with job transitions, a new routine, or a whole new way of living, this book gives you the tools to find balance—no matter how messy the changes are. You don’t need much time to start; focus on small, actionable steps to create the life you want.

Overwhelmed: Work, Love, and Play When No One Has the Time by Brigid Schulte
Big changes often leave us feeling like there’s less time for the things we love. Schulte’s book is a lifesaver when it comes to learning how to manage much pressure, whether it’s balancing work, family, or personal growth. She explores how to create space in your life for the stuff that matters most, even when you’re feeling buried by the last time life threw a curveball your way. Think of it as your roadmap to making it through without burning out.

These books offer more than just advice—they’re a support system for navigating life’s big transitions. Whether you're dealing with career shifts, a support of a mental health journey, or even trying to figure out how to keep your energy up with high-fat foods (thanks, Association of British Dietitians), these reads will help you find your balance.

In the end, change is about finding ways to keep moving forward—even if it’s just one small thing at a time. Let’s build a life that’s about thriving through life’s biggest challenges, not just getting by.

Find Your Balance with Josh Dolin: Life Coaching for Life’s Big Changes

Life changes can be overwhelming, whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a new city, or navigating personal transitions. That uncomfortable feeling when everything is shifting can make it hard to focus, but Josh Dolin’s life coaching is here to help. It’s not about doing more or adding stress—it’s about doing less things that don’t serve you, and finding the balance that allows you to thrive in both your personal and professional life.

The Best Way to Handle Life Transitions

Big life changes can feel chaotic, but Josh’s coaching breaks it down into manageable steps. The best way to navigate these transitions isn’t by taking on everything at once; it’s about identifying the less things that really matter and focusing on them. Whether you’re adjusting to a new situation at work, a personal change, or a major life transition, Josh’s approach will help you find stability without getting overwhelmed.

Make Time for What Truly Matters

During times of change, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities and tasks. Josh will teach you how to focus on what truly matters and let go of the rest. Instead of feeling like you have to tackle everything, you’ll learn how to simplify, making more room for what’s important—whether it’s personal growth, relationships, or self-care.

Overcome the Discomfort of Change

Feeling uneasy during life transitions? That uncomfortable feeling is a normal part of adjusting to something new. Josh helps you embrace the discomfort and turn it into an opportunity for growth. Through his coaching, you’ll find less pressure and more clarity, so that even in times of uncertainty, you’ll feel more in control of your life’s direction.

Find Stability in the Midst of Change

Life changes can throw off your balance, but they don’t have to derail your whole life. With Josh Dolin’s life coaching, you’ll learn how to find stability in the midst of transition. By focusing on the less things that create noise and distraction, and embracing change with confidence, you can build a more fulfilling and balanced life—one that grows with you through every stage.

Get Started with Josh Dolin

Ready to find balance during life’s biggest changes? Josh Dolin will guide you through each step, helping you simplify, focus, and thrive. Contact him today for a free consultation and start creating a life that feels balanced, even in the face of life’s most challenging transitions.