Navigating Life Transitions Without Losing Yourself
Sep 03, 2025
Going through a life transition can be exciting. At the same time, it can be stressful and hard…or it can be all those things at once.
What are some of these transitions that many of us go through? It could be starting a new job, getting a promotion, retiring, becoming an empty nester, or moving to a new place.
Even when the transition is something we’ve chosen and look forward to, there are often elements of grief tied in. Starting a new job or retiring may mean leaving behind coworkers you care about. Moving might mean saying goodbye to neighbors and a community you’ve grown comfortable with. When children grow up and move into their own independent lives, the house can suddenly feel quiet and empty.
Why Transitions Can Feel So Hard
Change, even positive change, comes with challenges. Common reasons transitions feel overwhelming include:
- Stress and uncertainty – not knowing what the future holds
- Loss of identity – leaving behind roles or routines that defined you
- Letting go – saying goodbye to relationships, places, or patterns that felt safe
- Fear of the unknown – questioning whether you’ll succeed or adapt
All of this can leave you feeling unsettled, anxious, or even like you’re losing yourself.
Strategies to Stay Grounded in Change
While every transition is unique, here are a few strategies that can help:
- Clarify your values and priorities. What matters most right now? Knowing this helps guide your decisions.
- Acknowledge the losses. Allow yourself to grieve what you’re leaving behind. It’s a natural part of moving forward.
- Focus on what you have to look forward to. Shifting your attention to the opportunities ahead helps build excitement and hope.
- Keep a few stabilizing habits. Anchoring yourself with small routines (like daily walks, journaling, or regular meals) provides a sense of consistency.
My Story: Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
Retiring from the military was one of the biggest transitions of my life. I had served for 29 years, and my connection to the military went back even further…my dad joined the Air Force when I was two. For more than 50 years, the military was part of my identity.
I saw some people transition to civilian life easily, while others struggled. I didn’t want to feel lost, so before I retired, I was intentional about creating a vision for what I wanted my life to look like after service. That vision helped guide decisions - what jobs I applied for, where I lived, how I spent my time and money.
Being clear on my values and lifestyle priorities reduced some of the uncertainty. It gave me something to look forward to, helped me focus on the future, and allowed me to embrace my new chapter without losing myself.
The HER Connection
At Her Wellness Coaching, I guide women through life transitions by focusing on the HER framework: building habits, protecting energy, and strengthening resilience.
- Habits: Small, steady routines help you stay grounded when everything else is shifting.
- Energy: Protecting your physical and emotional energy allows you to adapt without burning out.
- Resilience: With strong habits and restored energy, you’re better equipped to bend without breaking - so change becomes an opportunity for growth, not a setback.
Ready to Navigate Change with Confidence?
Life transitions don’t have to leave you feeling lost or stuck. With the right support, you can use them as an opportunity to realign with your values and step into your next chapter with clarity and confidence.
