Change is weird. Often it comes unasked, unwanted, and unexpected and feels like your entire world crashing down on you. I get that. It’s hard to grow comfortable with something so unpredictable and intimidating. Whether a sudden breakup or being let go from work, unexpected changes are scary and that’s a fact. Under better circumstances, change comes when called for and planned. This can include anything from switchings majors to cutting toxic people out of your life. It’s normal and healthy to feel like you need a change, as if you’re craving it in your bones. Remember that planned change is entirely in your control, so take advantage of it. Change can only be made when you are willing to do something different and consciously make an effort to work towards it. Always keep in mind that with change comes discomfort, but the best things in life come from stepping out of your comfort zone. Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is more painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong. Don’t rush it, be patient and take small steps; planned change won’t happen overnight and trust me that’s a good thing. On the other hand, unexpected change may very well happen overnight. It sucks, but it’s going to be okay. Everything is temporary, and all of the pain you are feeling will end. Don’t take your eyes off the silver lining; when one door closes, a million more open up for you. This is where planned change comes in.

Step one to embracing change: Turn unexpected change into planned change. Change can feel like you’ve been pushed off your feet and left there to ache. This is when you need to focus. Work on getting back up. After unexpected changes, the most important aspect is the response and that part is entirely under your control. That's why it is so vital to dedicate yourself to getting back on your feet and the manner in which you choose to do so is up to you. Let’s say your family is being forced to move to a new town or that a relationship didn't turn out as hoped. Both terrifying and unavoidable, but also both opening the door to so many new experiences and opportunities to fill their place. A new home is a wonderful chance to start fresh, meet new amazing people, and make a planned change to reinvent yourself any way you’d like. And as for the lost cause relationship - there are plenty of fish in the sea. As pessimistic as it may sound, I cannot stress enough that all things come to an end. Nothing lasts forever and when it is time for something to leave your life, don't fight it. Change may feel like a loss sometimes, but think of it as opening your life to an infinity of new things to gain. And if someone toxic in your life wants to leave, hold the door open for them.

“If people sat outside and took a moment to look at the stars each night, we’d all live a lot differently. When you look into infinity, you realize there are more important things than what people do all day.” Change, worry, nostalgia are all so small in the spectrum of things, don’t overthink it.