When my kids were very young, it felt like the moment we finally got the hang of their routine, they would change it. It was a great way to keep our egos in check and make sure we never got too comfortable.

Life has a funny way of doing that. Just when things seem to settle into a rhythm, whether good or bad, everything shifts again. Right now, I find myself in the middle of not one, but two of these transitions.

My mom is 91 and lives in assisted living. We recently moved her from Victoria, where she and my dad lived for 47 years, to a home located between my sister Leslie and me.

It’s both a blessing and a challenge. The shift from being the child to becoming the parent in the relationship is hard, both emotionally and physically.

Mom is doing quite well, but her mobility is limited and she often feels lonely.

I miss the relationship that we used to have too.

At the same time, our daughters have been living in Ontario since they were 18. They both went to university there, and Rachel decided to stay, building a vibrant life in downtown Toronto. She loves her job, her friends, and her fitness routine.

Leah is graduating and moving home in April, but she’s eager to find a well-paying job so she can travel.

Living with her parents in the suburbs is not exactly part of her ideal life plan, and I completely understand.

So how do I manage these transitions?

1. Remembering That I’m Not Alone
Many of my friends and clients are navigating similar situations with their parents, which makes it comforting to share experiences and simply know that others understand.

I’m also very fortunate to have both one brother and my sister to share the load. That kind of support is unique and incredibly helpful.

Sometimes we exchange practical ideas, but mostly it’s just the sense of connection and teamwork that makes all the difference.

2. Focusing on Gratitude
Gratitude has always been a powerful mindset shift for me. I regularly write down what I’m thankful for. I’m grateful that both of my daughters are healthy, happy, and thriving.

I’m also thankful that my mom is still enjoyable to be with and that I can spend this time with her.

The alternative is far less pleasant.

3. Taking Care of Myself
Exercise is my biggest anchor. While it doesn’t always happen as often as I’d like, I usually manage to fit in a few workouts each week. It makes a tremendous difference to my energy and outlook.

4. The Glass is ½ Full

I am optimistic by nature, so this isn’t too hard to do. I try to focus on the positive. With both girls finished school, our expenses have decreased significantly, which is great!

As for my mom, I now manage her finances and pay her bills—something I actually enjoy—so even this responsibility has a positive side.

I also have more time to myself so I have been able to get reacquainted with some old friends, especially ones who didn’t have kids and we drifted apart.

That has been great to reconnect.

Life is full of transitions, whether we’re ready for them or not. I once heard someone describe life as “brutiful”—both brutal and beautiful at the same time.

That feels especially true right now.

How do you manage during times of transition?

Source:https://lean-forward.com/the-stages-of-life-transitions-and-how-to-navigate-them/