How to Get Through Transitions

Sitting here on this quiet evening, I can't help but wonder if I'm a tad crazy. 3 months ago I moved 1,309 miles across the country. I left my home, my friends, my life, my family and the community that I had embraced and that had embraced me. I still don't have all of my stuff, 5 or so boxes remain in my old apartment with my old roommate. I'll get them soon, I'm sure. But that leaves me, for now, in a state of limbo. I'm not there, but I'm fully here. I'm in a transitional period of life, I'm generally uncomfortable and I still don't feel at ease enough to wander around this city alone to explore. But it's okay, I'm doing the best I can. I'm not use to being here yet, not at my apartment or my school. They don't feel like they are "mine". Not yet.

This transition isn't the hardest one I've gone through. No, that was my move from sunny California to Michigan back in 2007. That was a bumpy ride. I've learned a thing or two about living in the in-between since then.

Transitions are hard, but here are a few things that might make them a bit easier:

• Breathing. Sounds simple, but it works. Be mindful of your breathing. When you can pause, then take 3 deep breaths.
• Water. Another simple one that makes loads of difference. It's easy to forget about health when we're uncomfortable.
• Pack a box not of "needs", but of "wants" if possible. Figure out what makes you happy and make sure you have it. For me, my first box was filled some of my favorite books, photos and inspirational pictures. Some jewelry and favorite sweater (not that I need it in Texas).
• Keep a journal. Online or otherwise. Writing is therapeutic. Write about what you are feeling, about what you want to feel. What would your perfect day look like? If your transition is on your own terms, write about why you're doing it. If it's not, how that is effecting you and what you can do to make the best of it.
• Accept the discomfort. It sucks, I know. That weird feeling of discomfort from very basic things. A different shower, a different routine, or different people that you haven't gotten use to yet. Understanding that discomfort is part of the journey doesn't really help in the moment, but accepting it's part in the meaning of the transition does help with learning and growing.
• Smile. Smile at the postal worker, at the girl on the bus or new classmates. In the mirror is a great place to smile because you probably need it. Smiling opens up your heart, to yourself and others.
• Reach out to friends and family when you need them. Explain that what you are feeling and why you want to connect to them. Tell them how much they mean to you. Keeping connections alive is so important, but it's hard. Don't be afraid to email, phone or write a friend.
• Post reminders of this transition. It's easy to forget that this turbulence won't last forever. Pin up a sign that says "This Too Shall Pass" or "Everything Changes". Smile whenever you read it.
• If you can, talk to a counselor. If you are just starting out at college or moved to a new city, if never hurts to seek help. Many schools have counseling centers that are designed for students. Big cities often have sliding scale mental health facilities, google it or ask around. We all need help sometimes and mental health is just as important as physical health.

Transitions are a part of life, but they don't have to be overwhelming. Remember to take care of yourself. This period of in-between/ newness/ transition will pass and once it does you'll be able to look back and see how much you've grown.