Embracing change: Transforming pain into a new beginning

Life can sometimes chuck us a gigantic curveball, knocking us sideways. That could be the unexpected end of a relationship, a disruption, a life transition or losing our way a bit. For people who struggle with change, this could be a challenging process; leading to loneliness and confusion regarding what direction they navigate towards next. They may feel lost, empty and their identity may be blurred. This can be a frightening and lonely time for many.

In a world where a lot of interaction is now online, this can lead to withdrawing and believing that you are the only one experiencing these feelings and emotions. You may be afraid to voice your feelings to those around you, for fear of misunderstanding, being judged or presenting as vulnerable. Your voice becomes quieter and quieter, you don't want to burden people with your issues. After all, life can be hard for everyone, so why add to others' woes? So what do you do about it?

In those bleak moments, when for whatever reason you feel that your world is annihilated, what if that is the catalyst for looking through a different lens, what if the brokenness is what emerges to be the healing? What if you hold the key to end your suffering? Now I am not saying that it is going to be that easy, indeed it may take many, many years, but what if that sorrow, hurt and pain isn't there to destroy you, what if it is the cornerstone of a new you, a new beginning? 

Yes, wounds need to heal, that hurt inner child still needs nurturing, loving and support; that goes without saying. In this destruction and aftermath, as long as there is hope, there is a way. What if piece by piece, those demolished pieces come together and the bonds are stronger than ever; what if you are stronger than you have ever believed possible?

In my extensive private practice, I work with a range of individuals, couples and families. I am truly privileged to witness first-hand the lostness, the suffering and pain. I encourage them to gently explore how they would be on the other side of their pain, what they would look like, sound like, feel etc. In my opinion, where there is a glimmer of hope, that is all the thread that I need. Together we unravel and unpick. A glimmer of hope is my stimulant to explore their new perception of themselves. I want them to visualise a glimpse of what I see in them, how I see them in the aftermath; I always believe in them and how growth can take root from their heartache; a different kind of growth.

Healing is not fast or easy, it is like the grief process, it takes time, but it is achievable. What if the light starts to reappear, the dawn of a new you, yes the thought is scary, but exciting too. Change can be frightening, but rewarding. Yes, you have been forced onto a different path; what if this was your path all along, a better path? This new version of you takes confident, long strides into the future, you may falter, but you keep going, head held high and shoulders back. Everyone has a book in them, you get to write this next chapter, write the story of your life!