As we age, we experience countless new beginnings. Some of them are frightening, especially when we haven’t planned for them. Others are enjoyable and bring satisfaction.

Many life stages can cause a new beginning: from the empty nest to losing our loved ones we are in constant pattern of change. It’s important to understand, however, that change is a part of life. We should be ready to grow by keeping our memories close while also learning to expand our horizons.

So often I see people that age quickly after a life transition takes place. They are not open to the possibilities of a new beginning and decline mentally and physically. They become stuck in what was a routine.

When a major change – such as divorce, death, retirement or even a relocation – happens it can throw them into a tailspin. They are not finding the presence of the moment and do not look into how it may benefit them in the big picture.

Here are a few thoughts to help you with a shift in life.

Get Social

Find groups of people with whom to socialize regularly. It doesn’t have to be a daily thing, but it’s important to share your feelings and experiences with friends. Often, just listening to others and their feelings can help you relate to your current situation.

What are your interests? Find an activity that brings you joy – whether it is card games, crafting, writing or walking – and join a group of people who enjoy it too. This will give you interaction to help you feel as a part of something outside of your daily activities.

Get Physical

It may seem comfortable to stay home in your pyjamas and watch television but keeping active will benefit your health.

Find an activity you like and join a group that enjoys the same. It may be walking, gym classes, cycling, hiking or yoga. When you’re in a group, the common exercise and the interaction with the surrounding people will make you feel better.

Keep in Touch

We all tend to isolate ourselves when we go through a major change. Keep in touch with family and friends. You may not live close, but you can still contact them by phone, FaceTime or Skype. Conversations don’t have to be long, but the connection will reinforce bonds.

Embrace Your Life

Although it may be difficult, focus on the good in life and the goal you are working to accomplish. Don’t let yourself get into a rut. Keep your mind active by continuing to learn.

Develop positive habits that enrich your health and life. You will be surprise what results come from looking forward to the new and not focusing on the old or your loss.

Memories of the past are great things to treasure but the future is today. You can benefit and grow while moving forward and learning from the changes that occur.

Remember, we all go through life changes. Sure, as we age, they may become a little harder to transition into, but learning to adapt makes us stronger, even if it does take some getting used to.

Keep your mind open to change and how you can use it to start doing things in new ways, to meet new friends and to start new relationships that can benefit you.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you made any big shifts in your life this year? How good are you at dealing with change? Please share your insights and tips in the comments below!