Anticipating the hard.

My kids are in their last month of elementary school and I notice myself struggling quite a bit. I realize that I’m sort of numbing out to the emotions of all that is on the horizon as my kids say goodbye to 6th grade and I say goodbye to a number of the friendships I’ve built within my kid’s school. And this feeling isn’t really going to cut it.

It's because I’m anticipating these big hard emotions on the horizon, that I’m noticing myself shutting down a bit.

Using too much social media as a way to distance myself from facing the feelings under the surface. Being a little too rapid in a blanket response of “I’m fine” instead of being a bit more vulnerable with how I’m actually feeling.

So what is one to do? Well, I’m sharing all of this because it’s really sharing that is the antidote to manage the anticipation of hard on the horizon. 

Hard feelings.  
Hard goodbyes.  
Hard changes.

I’m beyond excited for this next chapter in my family’s future and I also know that by putting words to these not so fun feelings is really the only way to be more present to what’s coming (and quite honestly what’s already occurring).  

The more you can share how you’re really feeling and not avoid it or stuff it, the more you can get back to being present and really experience each situation for what it has to offer you.

If you’ve got some hard on the horizon or if you’re currently walking through a tough season, I really encourage you to share about it. Lean on your mate. Call a friend. Put pen to paper and let your writing flow.

Just know that when you’re anticipating hard, you will feel lighter when you don’t try and hold it all in or go at it alone.

We’ve got this.

-A

P.S. If you notice that isolation or avoidance is part of your coping around hard situations, I encourage you to reach out. Creating connection is a beautiful way to soothe hard feelings. I got you.