Tags: change | emotional support | transition

As mentioned in an earlier post, certain transitions are emotionally taxing and in others, like losing a job, the event was perhaps expected.  Nevertheless over time, we will get down, tired and disillusioned.  It is therefore very important to be aware of ways to stay positive.

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to stay upbeat during a transition is to surround yourself with friends, family, colleagues and people you know that will uplift and support you.  You know who the happy, friendly and honest people are in your personal and professional circles – tap into them.  You’ll find them a great source of strength.

Another way to stay positive is to stay active.  Having free time on your hands to think and stew about your situation can become unhealthy and toxic.  There are many ways to distract yourself, feel productive and meet new people that can either offer direct or indirect support, or potentially serve as network contacts.  Do you have certain passions – animals, civic organizations, environment or education?  If so, get involved and volunteer!

Often, we hear many people mention that a transitory period in their lives led them to enriching volunteer opportunities.  There are so many organizations today looking for volunteers – all you have to do is search for something that might be of interest or that you can relate to.  Locally, you can find organizations having to do with literacy, nature and the environment and health, to name a few broad categories.  You’ll find a few links to some of our favorite organizations:

Literacy:  http://www.nifl.gov/
Breast Cancer Awareness:  http://ww5.komen.org/
American Red Cross:  http://www.redcross.org/
Our Planet:  http://planetsave.com/
San Diego Community:  http://www.volunteersandiego.org

Whatever your passion, volunteering is a great way of helping and feeling good about your contribution to serve others and your community.

Another easy and inexpensive ways of staying positive in times of transition is simply to exercise.  Time and again, we hear how exercise during such times kept a person’s spirit up by physically feeling better (and in some cases, losing weight), building self-esteem and helping get a goodnight’s rest.  Statistics show that transitions are major events when people are more likely to gain weight.  Simply going out for a one, two or three mile daily walk will definitely help physically and emotionally.

If you enjoy other forms of exercise such as swimming, bicycling or other types of sports, look for clubs, groups or friends with similar interests.  If you prefer nature, check out beaches, lakes, or hiking trails.  Remember to check out your local library – they are always a great resource for outdoor activity books.

Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people and staying active and productive are key components of every successful transition.  Remember, it all starts with you as you Find Your Footing in the days ahead!