Give Me a Sign

Change is challenging, especially when it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what to change or how to go about it. I’m experiencing multiple transitions right now: a new career, a new city, and the changes that come with being a 48-year-old female. While it can be exciting, I forget to find the thrill in the newness because, initially, change is hard.

One of the toughest parts of change is decision-making. New situations bring more uncertainty, making decisions feels harder. In familiar settings, both work and play require less effort because the processes are known. In this new place, I find myself thirsty for a clear sign. I want to know whether to keep going or quit, to pivot or lean in. But, that’s not how novelty works. There’s rarely a big sign saying “this way” to success. Instead, there are small moments that need my attention. I need to check in with myself:

  • Are my decisions aligning with who I want to be? If I keep making these small choices, will I become a person I like?
  • Am I being patient? Change isn’t black and white; it’s a gradual adjustment. Am I giving it the time it needs, or am I expecting everything to be perfect overnight?
  • Am I putting in the work or just reacting to it?

Embracing the uncertainty of change requires patience and self-awareness. IT’S. SO. HARD. I don’t feel like doing it every day. I don’t always want to do anything, even things I enjoy. But by checking in regularly, I create a habit of observing reality. This widens my perspective and helps me notice what I need to be kind to myself while processing and moving forward.

ACTION: Take a moment to consider a choice you have to make. Reflect on the actions required for each option. Ask yourself: Which of these actions am I willing to take? This will help you move forward with a decision that aligns with your values and your willingness to commit.

POST

Handling Difficult Relationships Calmly

There are people I have to “get ready” for. I need to set my mind at ease before meeting them because they tend to trigger me. I might feel baited into arguments or discussions I didn’t want to be...

Dealing with Disruption

I’ve developed a few routines for my day to help things go smoother—including some physical and mental exercises like planking, yoga, writing. I’ve done these long enough that I don’t need to think...

Actively Generate Motivation

This morning, I woke up needing a bit of a boost. I spent about half an hour listening to motivational speakers—lecturers, storytellers, even the occasional yeller—and watched some videos. It’s one of...

Coping with Setbacks

I used to hate the saying “two steps forward, one step back.” It always seemed unfair that after putting in all the effort to move ahead, I’d suddenly be dragged back again—like some...

How to Help When Someone’s Upset

I’ve heard it many times: when someone is upset, don’t offer solutions. Ironically, that idea seems to upset people. If someone I know is struggling and I can clearly see the solution, why wouldn’t I...

Stay Productive Through Intense Emotions

Today, I might not feel motivated to do my job. I might feel bored by the mundane tasks ahead or uninspired by the effort it takes to move through the day. I might not feel like working. But over the...