Counseling Corner: Transitions
Mark Barajas, MA Counseling Center Intern
Leaves have changed color and are falling. The sun is setting earlier every day. The water temperature of Lake Michigan is slowly dropping. Midterm studying is giving way to finals preparation and thoughts of break. Winter holidays are on the horizon. We are in a period of transition.
Some say we are constantly in transition. Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher who lived over 2,000 years ago said, “Change is the only constant.”
The question is, how do you deal with transitions? Do you do it with excitement, anxiety, eagerness or dread? Do you do it with eyes wide open or eyes tightly closed? Do you feel confident heading into new territory or do you feel unsure? Which transitions are easier for you? Which are more difficult?
Transitions are a normal, expected part of life. Some can be exhilarating and others can be painful. Some transitions are familiar and some are brand new. But all require adaptation.
You’ve successfully navigated many transitions in your life. Middle school to high school, high school to college, and many others. And you will successfully manage many more transitions in the future. Picking a major, studying abroad, graduating from K, considering graduate school, career choices — the list is endless.
As the season changes and the semester begins to wind down, take a deep breath and congratulate yourself on another successfully managed transition. If you’re stuck, remember to look at the big picture, draw upon your strengths and, if you need extra help, come visit us in counseling center.
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