How big change happens and how to navigate it

I recently recorded a Podcast episode about change and how to navigate it and since then, my life has actually changed quite a bit. In fact, the recording is only one month ago. But sometimes things move and change really fast and the only thing that we can do is go with it. I wanted to summarise the different stages for you because as much as we would like change to happen in a linear and predictable way, the reality is usually a bit different.

Here is how change happens from my experience and what can help you navigate it:

1. You are starting to get a little too comfortable

You are happy where you are, you got what you wanted; technically, things could go on like this forever.... but you are missing a challenge. You are missing growth. You are starting to get a bit bored.

Be attentive to these early voices. Acknowledge how far you have come and understand what it is specifically that you are missing. These are your first indicators that will get louder over time.

2. Boredom turns into frustration

You are starting to get annoyed at things that didn't bother you in the past. What used to excite you feels like routine, and you keep noticing what could be better. Images start coming into your head of what your new dreams and ideal situation could be. You know that what you once wanted is no longer enough. Restlessness is kicking in.

Try to manage your frustration and have a good look at what you can really change. You might reach your limits with where you currently are and understand that your current situation might not be able to meet your new expectations.

3. The Decision

You will come to a point where you need to actively decide that this is no longer for you. Whether we are speaking about a job, a relationship, a place... anything in your life that is clearly no longer a match for helping you grow and exciting you truly now has the chance to be let go. You don't need to move out, quit or cut chords completely, but a process of detachment will start as you redirect your energy and stop trying to force things. Maybe this is all you got out of what it was. Maybe it's time for something new.

Don't be afraid to say no to something even when you don't know what to say yes to, instead. Sometimes we need to let go first in order to make space for new things. There is no point in clinging on to what you know is not enough.

4. The in-between

You are aware that you are not where you wanted to be, and still, you have no idea of what is going to happen instead. You might feel pressure to make something happen and yet, you don't know where to start. You don't see a clear path unfolding and that is ok. Trust and try to find your peace in this in-between space - because change is coming...

This is the trickiest part, because there is no evidence of the change coming on the outside and still, it could happen any day now. Remember that you don't need to force what is meant for you.

5. Out of nowhere

As you least expect it, everything you wanted is suddenly there. You didn't see it coming. A crazy opportunity presents itself and you know that you have to say yes. It is probably happening way faster than you would have wanted it to. Still, you know you can't miss this boat. This is your chance to be brave and trust. After all, you've been saying all along that you want change... and even as your previous comfort is starting to look very appealing all of a sudden, you know that there is no way back now.

Take your time for rest and stillness, but don't delay decisions that you know need to be taken. It feels scary to take action on what was previously just in your head, but trust me it's gonna be worth it. You are brave and you are taking life into your own hands.

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This is a summary of what big change can look like and it can be anything from a new job, moving countries, ending or starting a relationship or whatever other crazy opportunities you are dreaming of. If you want to hear more about my own examples, you can listen to my Podcast episode here: How big shifts happen and how to navigate them.

I hope that this was helpful for you and wish you all the best for all the exciting changes happening in your life.