Beginnings produce various feelings in people depending on how they are wired. From beginning a new day to the start of a project to relocation, each of us faces numerous beginnings in the journey of life. Understanding how we engage these new starts can allow us to explore what adjustments could be made mentally, emotionally and practically to experience greater success.
I love starting something new. Growing up, sleep was mostly non-existent the night before a new school year started. Give me a new journal or planner and I am thrilled! I thoroughly prepare for new projects and can barely wait to kick them off. For those who love new beginnings, it encompasses a fresh start with limitless possibilities. The newness of the unknown breathes life and adventure into that which may be growing stale.
Others find comfort in routine. Knowing what to expect and planning for such brings peace and assurance rather than surprise. New beginnings throw a wrench into things. The unknown lacks security to move forward comfortably. Starting new things may be desired, but the angst of getting to the point of ease brings strains in various ways, including mental. Tension of the unknown creeps into the comfortable.
And for some, newness perpetuates anxiety and can overwhelm. No joy, excitement or wonder surrounds the change in their lives. Significant measures must be taken if change is to be implemented. However, beginnings are often avoided because the cost is too great. The unknown presents paralyzing prospects rather than possibilities.
Beginnings hold potential not available in our known routine. No matter where you land, from enjoying the new to dreading it or somewhere in between, preparation can help us transition more smoothly. Here are a few ideas to help each of us be more equipped with new beginnings.
Mentally choose to embrace what is before you. If possible, spend the needed time to prepare, engaging your thoughts in a positive direction rather than fighting against the inevitable. Taking time to list the good, the challenges and the unknown gives voice to the things whirling in your head. By employing this technique, we can allow others to help, to encourage and to defuse that with which we struggle.
Emotionally be willingly to sit with each emotion as it arises. By acknowledging grief, fear, joy or any other emotion, we can search out the root of it and determine if it is based in truth or in a lie, then make adjustments as needed to make sure all our emotional responses are anchored in truth. Truth allows us to move forward confidently and unburdened. Emotions are what they are, but how we deal and react to them is a choice.
Practically plan to successfully walk the new path before you as far as you can currently visualize. This allows you to contemplate choices and consider options before you actually have to make a decision. Helping yourself prepare in advance relieves stress and uncertainty, giving you a sense of more control.
Change is hard and every change has a start or beginning. How we feel about these new adventures can have direct implications on their success. By understanding and accepting our natural response to these situations, it allows us to engage mentally, emotionally and practically—in healthier ways, offering an outcome better than otherwise possible. How we are wired is one aspect, but how we choose to engage is another. Beginnings will face us throughout our lifetime…Let’s use them to our advantage!
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