What do you do when life throws you a curve ball? How are we suppose to deal with life when everything as we know it changes?
The first step is to create space and time to deal with the new and unknown. Everyone leads busy lives – it is the mantra of the day! When we are hit with the unexpected, we are going to have to deal with the situation; however, if we don't create the space for it in our lives then the unexpected will seep quickly into our day to day activities. We will begin to experience increased stress caused by the unexpected. Our anxiety will be compounded by our already full lives, unless we make some changes quickly. Step one must be to create time in our schedule to allow space to deal with the unknown.
Step two is to gather information. Obviously if it is the unknown and the unexpected there are things which are new that need to be learned. During this period of time you will probably continue to experience moments of anxiety, however remind yourself you are on the right path. To handle the new and unknown you have to take the unknown out of the equation by researching, reading, asking questions, talking with experts on the subject, and gathering information. This takes time, so be gentle with yourself. This time will also be a period of learned patience. Be open to help and ideas from others. You will ultimately choose what you do (if anything) with the information. Mediation, quiet, and time spent in nature can help you reduce stress while you gather the information you need for step three.
Step three is to take action. Now that you have created space to deal with the unexpected and gathered information to deal with the new, you are now in a position to make informed decisions. You may choose to do nothing, but this is a decision that comes from an informed place. You may choose to make changes, but again this comes from a place of conscious and informed choice. Once you have made a decision (either to do nothing or to take action) you can apply the process "Easy as ABC," as described in "Stop Holding Back." A = Accept your decision. Accept that you have done what is needed up to this point and you are now making a conscious choice to change (or not). B = Be with your emotions. With any decision, comes emotions, allow yourself to experience these emotions fully. C = Change (or not). When timing is right, embrace the choice you have made whole-heartedly, and begin again the process of creating what you desire.
The unexpected and unknown can be scary and stressful; however you can take steps to reduce ‘the pain' that comes with it. Visit me at Calgary Life Coach for more information and resources to assist with any stress that may be holding you back.
The journey of your life is to discover your purpose and get on with living it out!
As a personal life coach, author, and facilitator with over 15 years experience in the training and development field, Tina's purpose is to creatively empower others to live vibrant and fulfilled lives sharing their passions and gifts with others.
Recently released her new book "Stop Holding Back" available both in soft cover and e-book formats. Visit us at www.purposewithin.com for more information on dealing with stress.
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