How to prepare for a transition back to normal life — 87 Percent

Transition is the internal process that happens inside our mind when presented with change; a letting go of how things used to be and reorienting to how they are now. This is a natural response that enables us to adapt to loss. The experience of this global pandemic is such a major life event that has inflicted loss of many types upon each of us.

Keep aware that change can happen quickly whilst transition occurs more slowly. Usually something new must be learned and something old must be un-learned, so the emotional dips (whether personal or professional) are inevitable, but the wisdom and resilience gained from the recovery process is a valuable part of life experience. 

Be optimistic. At the end of one thing is always the beginning of something new and we can focus on loss, or the new avenues that unfold…..as one door closes, another opens. 

Trust in your own abilities. Over-thinking and listening to your inner critical voice is a hindsight bias that is unhelpful and damages self-esteem. Seek emotional support and help when you need to. 

Be patient. Develop self-compassion when you feel frustrated or upset. Accepting your feelings allows them to move on, rather than getting stuck in a muddle.

Focus on what you can control. Solve the problems that you can and tackle what is in your influence, but accept the things that are out of your control and that you cannot solve. Let them go.

Be realistic. Don’t underestimate the difficult feelings that can suddenly arise during the change process.