With the new school year beginning it has, as it always does, got me thinking about new beginnings. New beginnings often evoke a mix of emotions - excitement, anxiety, hope, and fear, the prospect of a fresh start can be both empowering and daunting. Whether it’s starting a new job/school/college/university, moving to a new place, or entering a new phase of life, these transitions represent opportunities for growth and self-discovery and challenge us to confront uncertainties, to leave behind the familiar.
Change is an inherent part of life, yet it’s something we often instinctively resist. I think this resistance stems from our natural desire for stability and predictability. Our brains are wired to prefer the known over the unknown, the familiar feels safe, even if it no longer serves us. When we step into a new beginning, any new beginning, we are essentially stepping out of our comfort zones, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and fear, pushing us into our stretch or even panic zones. These emotions are not only normal but also a vital part of the process as I think they signal we are on the cusp of growth. The key is to acknowledge these feelings without letting them paralyse us, they are indicators of change rather than obstacles. Change is uncomfortable, even good, positive change, understanding that discomfort is a part of growth can make the transition less intimidating, just keep an eye on how it feels and male sure it doesn’t tip into the overwhelming panic zone (you can read about the different zones in a previous blog from November 2019 further down this page).
I think it can help to see a new start as an opportunity to reassess your goals, values, and desires. It’s a time to ask yourself, "What do I want to achieve?" and "What kind of life do I want to lead?" This self-reflection can help you to align your actions with your true self.
One exercise I often recommend is journaling. Writing down thoughts, fears, and aspirations can provide clarity and serve as a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions. It allows you to see patterns in your thinking and recognise areas where you may need to change your mindset.
Another important aspect of self-reflection is self-compassion. New beginnings often come with a learning curve, and it’s easy to be critical of yourself when things don’t go as planned or as you would want/except. Practicing self-compassion means acknowledging mistakes are part of the journey and treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend in a similar situation and to set realistic expectations. The excitement of starting something new can sometimes lead to setting overly ambitious goals/targets, which can result in disappointment/self-blame if things don’t go/progress as quickly as we hoped. I often advise people to break down goals into smaller, manageable steps as it not only makes the process less overwhelming but also provides a sense of accomplishment as each step is achieved. Another part of the self-compassion is to recognise that setbacks are a natural part of any new journey. Rather than viewing them as failures, I encourage people to see them as learning opportunities. Each setback offers valuable lessons that contribute to personal growth and to how you do it the next time.
No one needs to navigate a new beginning alone. Whether it’s leaning on friends, family, or a counsellor, having a support system can make a significant difference. Talking through your experiences with someone you trust can provide perspective and reduce feelings of isolation. In some cases, seeking professional support can be particularly beneficial. A counsellor can offer guidance, help identify unhelpful patterns of thinking, and provide strategies for managing stress and anxiety during the transition, but then I am biased J
So in conclusion, new beginnings, while challenging, are also opportunities to create a life that is more aligned with your true self. By embracing the discomfort that comes with change, practicing self-reflection and self-compassion, setting realistic goals, and seeking support, you can navigate these transitions with greater confidence and resilience. Remember, every end is simply a new beginning in disguise (corny I know! but true). Embrace it and watch yourself grow.
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