Change is hard.
…And this doesn’t just apply to a change of scenery, or diet. We as humans get accustomed to a certain way of life that makes us happy, or at least content. However, there are certain transitions in life that are not only necessary, but uncontrollable, and definitely NOT easy.
The most recent event that fits with this description is the transition to college. All of senior, and in some cases Junior, year is spent with a blind excitement for the unknown adventure awaiting known as College. Regardless of where you chose to go, or where you are now, this move can turn out to be very overwhelming.
Given that some people are more ready than others, it isn’t always all that bad. But what about the people who were just fine in their ten foot by twelve foot bedroom watching Netflix and going down for dinner when Mom says its ready. No two people will have the same experience, but there are some things to do that can be universally helpful even to those who are getting along just fine.
One great way to get more cozy in this big world you’ve been thrust into is to make the space YOURS. This can be anything from crowding your walls with photographs of people you love, to making it your own personal art studio, or even drowning your bed with unnecessary amounts of decorative and delightfully fluffy pillows. It doesn’t matter what it looks like as long as when you come in from a long day of running around you can look around and smile at what is yours.
Another great thing to do is to offer your address to people you knew from home. This may sound creepy, or as if you are fishing for gifts, but you would be surprised how many people actually want it! If you were a part of a church, sports group, or even close with family it is always a wonderful way to make them feel special (simply because you’re at least trying to keep in touch) and it will give you a long lost sense of comfort to know that everyone misses you and still care enough to send you a letter or a care package from time to time. Plus, who doesn’t love getting mail?
My personal favorite way of adjusting to a new atmosphere is to find myself a happy place. A happy place has no specific boundary or characteristic. I would define it as any tangible space that makes you feel secure.. or gives you the warm fuzzies. For some this space will be their favorite shade tree, a lover’s arms, or (if you are more like me) it can even be the best little locally owned coffee shop in town. Either way, it is very important to find a space that can be a “get away” or even a “reset” for when your brain occasionally turns into a beehive of nervous energy.
Lastly, I would strongly suggest having someone to vent to. Sometimes in a big transition (let’s call it college) you can feel very out of control. Everything is supposed to be freeing, but yet there is still some sense of restriction. Therapy takes many forms, but sometimes the one thing you need most is to talk until your face turns blue! Especially at a time when making friends can be tough at first it is super important to have a way to voice your emotions. This can be anyone from a trusted adviser, to a neighbor in math class, or even a trusted professional. Therapy is so underrated!