More Thoughts on Expanding Your Vision of Your Future

Life transitions include a variety of situations and circumstances, many of which do not involve job or career change. Think of the transitions you have experienced in the last 5 to 10 years or more. For most of us, as we mature, the transitions begin to add up. Perhaps you are trying to cope with your first, last, or only child going off to college or to kindergarten; or you celebrated your 40th birthday, or you are approaching retirement. For others, the transition was triggered by the loss of a loved one or a relationship. Other people are thrust into a transition because of a non-event - something they thought would happen that didn't. All of these transitions are part of life and coping with them often requires an adjustment of our perspective of life and our view of how things 'should be'. Some transitions that are the result of a very painful event may require more emotional strength, effort, and time to cope with the resulting changes. Even transitions that are happy events, such as your son or daughter getting married, may still require some time to adjust to your new living arrangements and the changes that result. If you can find something to turn your attention to, that may help you put the thoughts of your loss aside, even if for just a little while. Focusing on something outside of your routine or learning something new can also help. There is nothing that truly can replace your feelings of loss, but they should decrease - over time. Soon you will have created a 'new routine'. If you have experienced life transitions that have made it difficult for you to get your life back together, you may choose to seek assistance to help you regain your perspective. By appreciating today you can begin to regain your footing. By expanding your vision of your future, you may find meaning and be able to create a new view of your life. Mary Ann Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice providing career coaching and counseling for life's transitions. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor (MCC) by the National Career Development Association; a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC). Check out her Web site at http://www.YourCareerPlan.com. To contact Ms. Davis, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.