The Only Constant in Life is Change... But Transitions Take Time

You’ve probably heard it before: The only constant in life is change. And while that’s true, I’d argue it’s missing something.

The only constant in life is change—and it happens fast. But transitions? Those take their sweet time.

We’re wired to adapt, but adaptation isn’t instant. Whether it’s a small shift in our daily routine or a massive life change, moving through transition takes energy. The problem? Society tends to celebrate the change itself—new job, big move, major milestone—but rarely acknowledges the messy, in-between part. The part where you’re still figuring things out, still adjusting, still exhausted from it all.

So if you’ve ever wondered Why does this feel so hard?—you’re not alone.

Why Transitions Feel So Hard

Some people thrive in constant change, but for many—especially those who are neurodivergent—transitions can feel completely overwhelming. And there’s a reason for that: our brains are built for routine. When we’re suddenly thrown into something new, a lot of energy goes into adjusting. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:

The Basal Ganglia: This part of your brain loves habits. Once you’ve got a routine down, it helps you run on autopilot, using minimal energy.
The Prefrontal Cortex: This is where problem-solving and decision-making happen. When you’re in a new situation, it has to work overtime, which is mentally exhausting.
The Amygdala: The emotional center of the brain. Change can activate this area, triggering stress, anxiety, and that fun little thing called imposter syndrome.

A Real-Life Example: The New Job Transition

Let’s say you’ve been in the same job for a couple of years. You know the systems, the people, even where the best snacks are in the break room. Then, you start a new job.

At first, you’re excited—this is a great opportunity! Then, the doubts creep in. Did they really mean to hire me? What if I fail? Now you’re battling imposter syndrome while also learning new processes, meeting new coworkers, and adjusting to a different commute. Your brain is working overtime.

By the end of the first few days, you’re drained. Maybe you skip the gym, forget to eat dinner, or cancel plans with a friend because you just can’t. That’s transition in action. And it’s normal.

Navigating Transitions with Less Overwhelm

Transitions will always take time, but there are ways to make them easier:

Slow Down (or Stop)

If you can, hit pause before a big transition—give yourself a moment to prepare. But even if you’re already in the thick of it, slowing down in any way can help. Take a breath. Step back. Resist the urge to rush through.

Observe

Pay attention to what’s happening—both externally and internally.

What emotions or thoughts keep popping up?
How is this transition affecting you (and those around you)?
What do you actually need right now?

Adapt

Transitions take energy, so be mindful of where yours is going.

What can you temporarily scale back to give yourself more mental space?
What habits (sleep, movement, quiet time) will help keep you steady?
What’s non-negotiable for you right now? And what’s okay to let go of?

Plan (But Keep it Flexible)

Look ahead at the next few weeks and be intentional with your time:

Block out space for what matters—both at work and in life.
Identify tasks you can delegate, delay, or just not do.
Build in rest periods, because transitions are exhausting, and recovery matters.

Change Happens Fast. Transitions Take Time.

Most people focus on managing change—the external event. But transition is the internal process that follows, and it doesn’t happen overnight.

So, if you’re in the middle of a transition and feeling a little lost, give yourself grace. It’s okay to be tired. It’s okay to take your time. And it’s definitely okay to let go of the idea that you should have it all figured out by now.

Change is inevitable. But how you move through your transition? That part’s yours to navigate.

Want to know more about the art of navigating transitions? Join us for our FREE webinar on Thursday, March 20th.

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