In Anchorage, flocks of ducks and geese gather on lawns and parks to feed and rest. The past two weekends, the swans have dropped in for a rest on our small lake, taking a break on their southbound flights.

As I watch these migrating birds, I consider the effort they put into flying hundreds, sometimes thousands of miles. It’s amazing how much energy they use!

Changing seasons require energy

They couldn’t complete their migrations without refueling. And just like them, we need refueling when we’re navigating big changes.

In the excitement (or sometimes dread) of change, we lose track of the energy it takes to navigate new territory.

Changes are hard on us emotionally, physically and mentally.

When change looms, it’s natural to dig in our heels and resist (which in its own right requires energy) or forge ahead enthusiastically. We tend to resort to working harder instead of pausing to refuel.

Rarely do we take the time to simply acknowledge that we’re going through a big change and give ourselves a break! It’s counterintuitive to slow down when it seems more effort is required.

We need time to process change

When we encounter change, we’re often doubly busy. We’re wrapping up what was and stepping into what’s to come. And both leaving and starting have their own set of emotions that we all too often ignore.

We’re often processing emotions on very many confusing levels. This is true even of positive changes, like watching our kids gain independence.

Becoming an empty-nester, for example, even in the best of circumstances, brings mixed emotions. We’re sad and happy that they’re stepping away from us, we’re excited and afraid. We’re nostalgic over the times we’ve had and worried we didn’t prepare them well enough. And, most of us don’t quite know what we’ll do with ourselves once they’re out the door.

Plus, it’s rarely a direct route to empty nest, especially during the pandemic. Many young adults “boomerang” in and out of the house for a period of time.

We need to refuel our hearts, minds and bodies

Refueling may look different for each of us. And it may look different for you in different seasons.

But whatever it looks like for you in this season, be sure to take the time you need. Pausing to refuel will give you energy for the rest of your journey!

Resources: Pause to refuel

• Try harder or live lighter?
• Building margins into your life
• Put yourself first
• Get fierce about self care
• Finding peace in the chaos
• We need buddies

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