A different role, relationship change, cross-country move … are you about to embark on something new?
How do you feel about that?
A new chapter can be both thrilling and scary. One minute you’re breathing in the fresh air of the fresh start; the next, you’re wondering if you ever knew anything about anything.
And all of it is natural.
While we often talk about the exciting aspects of a fresh start, we don’t always discuss the stickier parts. On that note, here are a few considerations as you begin your next chapter:
Give thanks for / make peace with the previous chapter(s).
This may sound a little woo-woo, but it’s important.
Your previous chapter was not wasted time. You learned, you grew, you developed skills that will serve you going forward.
Bless it for what it was, reflect (and perhaps document) what you learned, and know that it all serves a purpose in your bright future.
Acknowledge without dwelling.
This new chapter? It might be hard – really hard – at times. And that’s o.k.
We can acknowledge that something isn’t all rainbows and lollipops, even if it’s something we’ve worked hard for or dreamed of for years.
But we don’t need to linger in the difficulty, either.
Connect with your core values. Call on your mental strength, and continue building it. Trust in yourself and your ability to succeed.
Focus on your vision.
Yes, learn from the past. But let your vision of what you’re building take up more mental real estate going forward.
It may take a little while to get situated in your new chapter, and it can be helpful recognizing – but again, not dwelling on – that from the onset. Learn from your past, envision your future, and relish in the present moment. And don’t be afraid to reach out for help along the way!
What else helps you when embarking on a new chapter? Share your helpful hints below or on Instagram!
Christi Hegstad, PhD, PCC, is the Practical + Purposeful Coach for Achievers! Join our email community for coaching tips, book recommendations, earlybird enrollment to the 2022 ASPIRE Success Club, and more!