Tabitha Tip: How Do I Cope with New Year’s Nervousness?

Do you see the New Year as a glittering opportunity for new hobbies, travels and experiences? Or perhaps a simple painful reminder of the passage of time? Believe it or not: it’s common to feel a mix of both. While some folks look toward the undefined future with excitement and possibility, many others might experience anxiety or dread when considering what might—or might not—happen.

Change can happen at any given moment, on levels both miniscule and monumental: from your usual coffee shop discontinuing your favorite drink to a major life event or anything in between. In this regard, it’s totally normal to fear change and all it brings—even if everything works out in your favor in the end.

Take these pointers from Tabitha on helpful ways to cope with life’s highs and lows:

Try establishing a broad framework for your future. Did you know that resisting change will make coping with it that much harder? It can be challenging to maintain an open mind, but that and the “Building Blocks for Successful Change” can make a world of difference when the unexpected occurs.

This principle requires you to consider six items: your vision, values, incentives, resources, judgment and action plan. Ask yourself, “Do I have a vision of what I want my situation to look like, and supportive people and resources to help me get there? What values can I hold nearest to myself as I create my action plan? Am I using my best judgment, and giving myself incentive to keep moving forward?” You may not know the answers to all of these questions—and they will likely change over time—but the more you piece together, the clearer the path ahead.

Recognize that coping with change isn’t always linear—and that’s okay. No matter the event you endure, it’s not uncommon to experience one, several or all of the traits within the “Five Stages of Grief” framework: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Acceptance is the final stage for a reason, but know that there are many factors that will affect how readily you will come to terms with your new circumstances.

For example, a change in career, getting used to life with a newborn or new pet, or losing someone you cherish all come with different reactions, emotions and timelines toward acceptance. Everyone is different, but ultimately, community is formed when supporting one another through tough times.

Make the most of your time, but don’t feel pressured to always keep it productive. Coping, grieving or adjusting can leave you at your most vulnerable. It’s important to maximize your time in effective ways. Whatever brings you the most comfort, happiness and sense of self is crucial. For example: if you’re an avid hiker, spend some time in nature or take a calming walk. If you thrive in the company of others, grab coffee or dinner with someone you love and catch up on the latest happenings.

Even if you’re experiencing a “good” change, you’re still bound to encounter uncertainty in some form—and there’s no shame in that! Take time to reflect on each day’s joys and discomforts through quality conversations with someone you trust or writing in a journal. This can help you relate to your previous experiences, validating your feelings and offering reassurance that you will make it through difficult moments.

“New Year’s Depression” can be quite the hurdle as you enter 2025. Remember to treat others—and yourself—with kindness as we all embark upon this 365-day journey together!

This health tip is brought to you by Tabitha. To learn more, visit us at Tabitha.org or call 308.389.6002.