Coping with Change: When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned

Change is a constant part of life — but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Whether it’s a job shift, a relationship ending, a move, a diagnosis, or simply the passage of time, change can shake our sense of stability.

Even positive changes can bring grief, fear, and uncertainty.

We’re often expected to “just adapt,” but adjusting to change takes time, tenderness, and space to feel what comes up.

Why Change Feels So Hard

• It disrupts routine and familiarity

• It brings uncertainty, which our brains find stressful

• It may trigger old wounds or unresolved grief

• It often highlights what’s being lost, not just what’s coming next

Ways to Cope Through Change

• Acknowledge the loss. Even if the change is welcome, it’s OK to grieve what’s ending.

• Stay grounded. Keep small routines, connect with others, and take care of your basic needs.

• Don’t rush acceptance. You’re allowed to take time to adjust.

• Focus on what you can control. Small choices (like when to rest, what to eat, or who to reach out to) can restore a sense of agency.

• Practise self-kindness. You’re navigating a lot. Be gentle with yourself.

Final Thought

You don’t have to “have it all together” in the middle of change. You’re allowed to wobble. What matters is how you care for yourself as you find your footing again.