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Hurdle #5 Transitional Stress

 

Transitional stress happens when there has been a change that has taken place in our lives.  Change is external and happens quickly. It is something that we can see. Change can be as common as the seasons of weather, the milestones of life, and our schedules.

 

Transition is internal and takes time. It can be messy and usually there is a rub happening inside us and brings us to a crossroad. Sometimes transitions can feel like we are stuck in a holding pattern and this waiting is a raw and an exposed place.

 

Transition is a gift from God to you. He walks with you to show you the things in your life that need to let go and to die for the purpose to provide space for something new to grow. Transformation is the true destination of transition.

How can you navigate through transitional stress?

1) Identifying and stating where you are in transition can be very helpful to know, ‘You are here.’

 

2) Call it hard when things are really hard. 

 

3) Pause and reflect. 

 

4) Surround yourself with safe people and community. 

 

5) Be anchored to Jesus who brings order to chaos and wholeness to our lives.

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