Shift Happens: Emotional Variability, Money, & Relationship Reshuffling Part 2 of 4

Navigating Challenges During Life’s Changes

Ever feel like life’s big changes are tossing you around like a ship in a storm? You’re not alone. Welcome to Part 2 of our “Shift Happens” series, where we dive deeper into the challenges that come with life’s major transitions. (Missed part 1?)

Are you managing emotional turbulence, financial uncertainties, and social reshuffling that occur when shift happens? Then part 2 is for you. So get ready to turn those overwhelming “what now?” moments into opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Let’s tackle these challenges head-on and emerge stronger on the other side.

 

4. Managing Emotional Variability

Transitions can send our emotions on a wild ride. One minute you’re excited about new possibilities, the next you’re angry or sad about what you’ve left behind. This emotional ping-pong is exhausting! But it’s also normal. Instead of trying to shut down these feelings, try to observe them without judgment, recognizing that it’s normal to experience multiple emotions simultaneously. They’re all valid, and they’re all part of the process.

Shift Happens Action Step:

Become an emotional weather reporter! For the next week, play meteorologist with your feelings. Three times a day – maybe morning, noon, and night – check in with yourself. What’s the emotional forecast?

 

Grab your phone or a small notebook and jot down what you’re feeling. Don’t overthink it – just quick notes like “Excited about the job interview, missing old coworkers” or “Anxious about the move, proud I packed three boxes.”

The trick is to report these emotions, not judge them. You’re not labeling them as good or bad, just noticing them like you would notice if it’s sunny or raining outside. At the end of the week, look back at your entries. You might be surprised at the range of emotions you’ve experienced – and how quickly they can change.

This exercise isn’t about changing how you feel. It’s about getting comfortable with the idea that you can feel many things at once. You’re not broken or indecisive – you’re human. And just like weather patterns, your emotions will keep shifting. So grab your emotional umbrella, your hopeful sunglasses, and maybe a jacket of determination – you’re ready for whatever emotional weather comes your way!

 

5. Money Matters

Let’s be real. Many life transitions come with financial stress. Maybe you’re dealing with a pay cut, unexpected expenses you are not ready for, or the costs of starting over. These changes can feel overwhelming, but it’s not insurmountable. Start by getting clear on your new financial needs in this new life shift situation. You can navigate this challenge.

Remember, this isn’t just about crunching numbers. It’s about taking control when money’s tight. By mapping out your cash flow and hunting for those sneaky expenses you can cut, you’re giving yourself a financial game plan.

Shift Happens Action Step:

Create a detailed budget for your new financial situation. List all income sources and necessary expenses. If you need help to create a budget, here is an excellent beginner’s guide to creating one at Ramsey Solutions. Once you create or revisit your current budget, identify the areas where you can reduce spending, no matter how small.

 

Then brainstorm three creative ways to boost your income if you still need extra cash flow. Could you start a dog-walking side hustle? Host a clothing swap instead of buying new threads? Create a gig on Fiverr for online tutoring?

If your financial issues go beyond a basic budget, there’s no shame in reaching out to a financially savvy friend or consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized guidance. It’s all about getting a handle on things so you can breathe a little easier.

Remember, this isn’t about becoming a money guru overnight. It’s about taking control, one small step at a time.

 

6. Relationship Reshuffling

Ever notice how some of life’s big shake-ups give your social circle a good spin? It’s like your relationships are all on a merry-go-round, and someone just cranked up the speed. Some friends might fly off, while others grip on tight, showing up for you in ways unexpected. And don’t be surprised if you and your nearest and dearest start butting heads more often. It’s all part of the “change package deal,” where you get the good, the bad, and everything in between.

Give yourself and those around you some grace. Avoid being aggressive or retreating from conflict. Try to discuss your conflicts with the endgame of a win-win outcome. Share your needs and concerns, while listening to understand theirs. Find the common ground. Changes can cause stress for everyone, not just for you.

Another tip is to keep an eye out for possible new support relationships for this new phase of life. You never know who could be your next support friend.

 

Shift Happens Action Step:

Organize your social network. Get out your drawing tools. Draw a bullseye with three rings. Label them from inside out: “Coaches,” “Inner Circle,” and “Positive Allies.”

 

Coaches:

Now, think about the people in your life. Who is that wise sage in your life (and you might have more than one) who is miles ahead of you on the journey of life? They are happy to pour their expertise into you for your personal growth. When you follow their advice, it brings success to your life. These people go into the “Coach” center bullseye circle. Are you lacking someone in your life to fulfill that coach role? Or maybe you need a level of confidentiality for you to navigate challenges during your life change? We can jump in and help you reach success.

 

Inner Circle:

Who’s been your ride-or-die through your life shifts? They go in the next ring out labeled “Inner Circle”. These are the people you can call at 3 AM. The Inner Circle is a group of trustworthy individuals who always have your back, even if they’re not around all the time. They accept you for who you are and aren’t afraid to show their vulnerable side. They’ll give it to you straight when you need to hear it. There is a sense of mutual improvement and having each other’s back.

 

Positive Allies:

In this circle, you will find only people who are fun, supportive and inspiring, rather than toxic or draining. These are your casual buddies, the new neighbor you clicked with, maybe even that cool barista who always remembers your order. Positive Allies let us just be in the moment and have a good time with someone.

 

Select one person from every circle and attempt to reach out to them this week. Schedule a time to get deep with the Coach. Have an open and honest discussion about the details of what’s happening with you. The Inner Circle deserves a heartfelt “thanks for not running away” message, maybe with a coffee date thrown in. For a Positive Ally, reach out and propose a get-together – it could be a game of pickleball, a walk through the art museum, or any other activity that resonates with you.

Remember, this isn’t about slapping permanent labels on people. Friendships can surprise you – today’s acquaintance might be tomorrow’s bestie. The point is to nurture the connections that feed your soul, be upfront about what you need, and stay open to new friendships that fit the new you.

If you are looking for a deeper level of support that is confidential, consider scheduling an appointment with our professional life coach who can support you through your current transition.

 

Wrap Up

Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From riding waves of feelings to wrestling with your wallet and doing the friendship shuffle. You can choose to view these challenges as chains in your life or as your personal growth playground. You can navigate challenges during life changes one small step at a time.

Ready for more life-shifting wisdom? Don’t forget to check out Part 3 of this series here where we tackle feeling out of control, adapting to new normals, and rebuilding your confidence.

And hey, if you’re feeling like you could use a confidant to help you process your shift, schedule a session with us today. We are ready to help you turn those “oh no” moments into “oh yeah!” victories. So what are you waiting for? Reach out to Dawn of Changes today and start transforming those life shifts into your personal success story.

Ready For That Extra Support?

Are you experiencing a major shift in your life? Dawn of Changes coaching provides a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can:

  • gain clarity in the mental confusion and emotional overwhelm
  • find inner peace
  • capture a renewed sense of purpose and direction
  • overcome personal obstacles
  • navigate your path to success strategically
  • emerge as a self-confident, purposeful person equipped to experience a fulfilling life

Consider partnering with us in your current life change.