Finding Your Footing When Life Shifts

 Life has a way of changing the ground beneath us. Sometimes it’s expected, other times it comes out of nowhere. Either way, the shift can feel uncomfortable. Change can come about quickly and it sometimes leaves our heads spinning trying to figure out how we got here so quickly. I have found that when these unexpected shifts happen, the key is in how we respond. 

1. Recognize What’s Really Happening

Before rushing into “fix-it” mode, pause. Sometimes we mistake discomfort for failure, when really it’s just change at work. This is a perfect time to reflect on where we are, where we are going, and what is it we need to learn during this transitional period. These shifts often come with new possibilities if we are open to seeing them and it's important to acknowledge our emotions and lean into new directions. When I was laid-off last year, I had to take some time to envision new ways of achieving my goals and what paths I wanted to divert to. Instead of focusing on what was ending, I viewed it as a fresh start.

2. Give Yourself Permission to Adjust

Stability doesn’t mean standing still, it means learning how to find balance again. That starts with giving yourself grace. We need time to process, accept the changes, and find peace even when we don't have the answers we desire. Allowing this adjustment to take place gradually, also allows God to shift your focus to where He wants it.

3. Anchor in What Doesn’t Move

When the ground feels unsteady, it helps to focus on what is steady. Your faith, values, and the relationships you can trust become your anchor. In times of uncertainty it's always to best draw near to God and invite Him to cover, guide, and direct us. He sees the full picture while we operate from limited capacity.

4. Small Steps Over Big Leaps

When everything feels uncertain, the next small step is often the safest and smartest one. You don’t have to see the whole path to keep moving. We can create a new view of our future and still just take on one day at a time as we adjust to the change. Small steps also give room to adapt if the shifts are still in progress and we don't know what long term impacts will be in place. As we continue to move forward, we become more settled with the new direction as well.

5. Trust That You’ll Grow Here Too

Every shift brings lessons. What feels uncomfortable now can become the place where you grow the most. It's a great opportunity to allow God to grow our faith and depth in relationship to Him. It also allows us to become more resilient and empowered to take on new challenges in the future.

If you’re in a season where life feels shaky, you’re not alone. Shifts don’t have to break you, they can shape you. Keep steady, keep growing, and trust that this ground will get firmer under your feet.