Shift Happens: Loss of Control, Adapting, & Confidence Part 3 of 4

Navigating Challenges During Life’s Changes

Welcome to part three of our “Shift Happens” series, where we’re tackling the mental game of life transitions. (Missed part 1 or part 2?)

In this third installment, we’re diving into challenges seven, eight and nine: feeling out of control, adapting to a new normal, and rebuilding our confidence when it feels like the rug’s been pulled out from under us. Whether it is navigating a career pivot, personal transformation, or any major life shift, these strategies may help turn uncertainty into opportunity. Get ready to reclaim a sense of control, flex adaptability muscles, and practice resilience. Let’s transform those overwhelming moments into stepping stones for growth and success.

 

7. Feeling Out Of Control

When everything’s changing, it’s easy to feel like you’re just along for the ride and not in the driver’s seat. This loss of control can be really unsettling. How do you find your steering wheel?

The trick is to focus on what you can control, even if it is the small things. Can’t change the job market? No problem, focus on acing those interview prep sessions. Feeling overwhelmed by world events? Concentrate on making a positive impact in your local community. Struggling with a health challenge? While you may not control the diagnosis, you can take charge of your nutrition, exercise, and adherence to treatment plans. Those small choices stack up and soon you’ll feel like you’re back in the driver’s seat.

Shift Happens Action Step:

Ready to grab the wheel of your life? Let’s do a quick “Control Inventory.” Grab your phone or a scrap of paper – whatever’s handy. Draw a line down the middle and label one side “Can’t Control” and the other “Can Control”.

 

So, let’s get real about your situation. Jot down everything that’s messing with your sense of control in the “Can’t Control” section. The job market sucks? Write it down. Your boss is a nightmare? On the list it goes. Your neighbor’s noisy renovations? Include that. The rising cost of living? Put it down. Your partner’s mood swings? Add it. Your city’s increasing traffic congestion? Yep, that too. Family drama you’re not directly involved in? Jot it down.

 

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. For each thing you can’t control, challenge yourself to find something you can. Job market’s rough? Maybe you can spruce up your LinkedIn profile. Crazy boss? You could practice some zen-like responses to keep your cool. Noisy renovation? Maybe use noise-canceling headphones or adjust your schedule temporarily. Rising cost of living? Focus on your budget and spending habits. Darling’s mood swings? Focus on managing your own response. Traffic? Perhaps you leave earlier or explore alternate routes. The family drama? You control your level of engagement and set or reinforce healthy boundaries in those relationships.

 

Once you’ve brain-dumped it all, circle three things from your “Can Control” list that you can tackle this week. Pick one to start with today.

Just a reminder, our aim is not to turn into control freaks. It’s about finding those moments of empowerment throughout your day. Focus on these, and you’ll start feeling less like life’s punching bag and more like the leader of your own story. So, which small win are you going to own today?

 

8. Adapting To A New Normal

Let’s face it. We are creatures of habit, and change can feel very uncomfortable. Remember how you felt when your favorite auto mechanic shop closed? Or when your company switched to that new software system? Yeah, it’s not fun.

We all have that little voice inside saying, “But I liked things the way they were!” That is a completely normal response. Change is hard, especially when we’re attached to how things used to be. It’s natural to resist at first, but flexibility is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets. Flexibility is a superpower! By using it, we build our resilience for bigger changes.

Shift Happens Action Step:

Shake up your routine with “Flexibility Friday!” Start small– we’re talking tiny steps here. Maybe today you take a different route to work. Sure, you might hit some traffic, but you might also discover that amazing little bakery on the corner. Or how about trying that weird-looking fruit at the supermarket? Worst case, you’ve got a funny story. Best case? New favorite snack! Each week, switch up one part of your day. Try a new lunch spot, revamp your workspace, or dive into a different genre of movie or book.

 

At the end of the day, reflect on how this change affected your mindset and productivity. And don’t forget to take a moment and celebrate these little adaptations.

 

Remember, every gigantic wave starts with a tiny ripple. Your small adaptations today are preparing you for the tsunami of change tomorrow. So go ahead, shake things up a little. The future you will thank you for it.

 

9. Rebuilding Confidence

Major transitions can really shake our confidence. Suddenly, we doubt choices that used to be simple for us. One day we are confidently leading meetings, and the next we are second-guessing whether we even put our shoes on the correct feet. We’ve all been there, and it’s as comfortable as wearing wet socks. It’s weird when things get uncertain and we feel lost in a world that used to be so familiar.

Keep in mind, doubt doesn’t make you weak. It shows you care about making good choices. Be kind to yourself during these periods of transition. Don’t forget that self-doubt is totally normal when you’re growing and changing. Your mind is just trying to keep up with the changes and make sure you’re thinking of everything. Don’t beat yourself up for feeling unsure. See it as a sign that you are growing. With some time and patience, you’ll get your confidence back, maybe even stronger than before.

Shift Happens Action Step:

Create a “Confidence Capsule.” Spend 15 minutes to write a letter to your future self, detailing three specific challenges you’ve overcome and the strengths you used to overcome them. Seal this letter in an envelope and set a reminder to open it in one month (or whenever you are ready for that boost).

 

When you doubt yourself during this transition, just touch the envelope and remember: “I’ve got the proof of my resilience right here.” What is inside that envelope will remind you of your past wins and give you a confidence boost when you need it the most.

 

Wrap Up

So there you have it, three more tips to help handle life’s shake ups. Whether you’re feeling lost behind the wheel, struggling with flexibility, or doubting yourself, just remember: you’ve got this. Empower yourself where you can, and embrace the adventure of change (even if it’s just trying that funky-looking fruit), and don’t forget to celebrate milestones you reach. So take a deep breath because shift happens – but how you handle it? That’s all you, superstar.

Want to learn more about us? Or maybe you are curious what to expect from one of our coaching sessions. Let’s turn those challenges into stepping stones for your success!

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.