Change—it’s a word that stirs both excitement and resistance. In the last week alone, we’ve experienced daylight saving time, witnessed a rare full blue moon on Halloween, and watched the last leaves fall from the trees here in NYC. Oh, and let’s not forget the intensity of the 2020 presidential election and the ongoing challenges of the pandemic.
Despite it all, we’re here, navigating transitions and celebrating small wins. Shifting and adapting is on my mind.

Navigating Transitions in Daily Life
We experience transitions all day, every day. From fidgeting in our chairs to moving when we feel restless, our actions are subtle adaptations. When life feels unsatisfying, we naturally seek change to bring clarity and comfort.

Yet change is rarely comfortable. I’d argue that “discomfort” should be part of its definition! It challenges us, stretches our limits, and fosters growth—just like muscles must strain to grow stronger.

When life feels too comfortable, we may settle into a sense of accomplishment. But as psychologically curious individuals, you’ve likely noticed that staying the same often leads to stagnation. Our passions and curiosities fuel our desire to explore and grow.

The Discomfort of Change and Its Role in Growth
On a recent hike, I found myself reflecting on how trees adapt through the seasons. Leaves sprout, bloom, live in the light, and eventually fall, decomposing into nutrients that fuel new growth. The cycle is inevitable and essential.
Similarly, humans face discomfort during transitions—whether it’s navigating conflict in a relationship or adjusting to new routines. These challenges push us to make choices:
Do we avoid hard conversations and stay the same?
Or do we embrace discomfort, feel it fully, and move toward growth?
By processing these moments, we create fertile ground for personal development.

Lessons from Nature on Adaptability
Our brains and bodies are wired for adaptation. When we’re cold, we shiver. When we’re hot, we sweat. But when it comes to emotional changes, the process feels far less predictable.
Nature follows clear, cyclical patterns. For humans, change is more complex, influenced by countless variables—some beyond our control. However, we do have agency over how we approach transitions.
Change is a choice. It’s a decision to evaluate our relationships, embrace curiosity, and confront what excites or scares us. It’s about finding meaning in discomfort and trusting that growth will follow.

Reflection Prompts for Embracing Change
As we move into colder days and uncertain times, I challenge you to reflect on your relationship with change. Grab your journal or sit quietly with these prompts:
1. The opposite of change is…
2. The challenges I’ve faced this fall include…
3. I’m staying the same because it feels comfortable and safe by…
4. I know I’ve embraced adaptation when I…
5. The amount of change I can tolerate is…
6. I know the amount of change is too much when…
7. In the past months, I’ve adapted by…
8. My needs and wants are…
9. My values have shifted recently because…
10. I feel _______ about these shifts in values.
11. Because of these shifts, I’ve started including _______ in my daily routines.

Struggle is often the birthplace of growth. Where you’ve been has shaped who you are, and where you’re going will define the person you’re becoming. Embrace change, reflect on its lessons, and trust that it’s leading you toward greater fulfillment.