On a day like today, seven years ago, I was at my hometown airport saying goodbye to my extended family and close friends. My parents, brother, and I would take a one-way flight to the United States, not knowing when or if we would ever be able to go back. It was a very emotional day, filled with tears, uncertainty, enthusiasm about discovering a whole new world, and fears of a new beginning above all. Up until then, I do not think I had experienced a true new beginning. At that moment, fear took over and some time had to pass for me to realize that day would then be one of the greatest and most important in my life.
Most people dislike new beginnings because they are not always desired; they usually just sort of just happen due to life’s circumstances. Whether it is a new job, a new life, or a new start, they all bring in mixed feelings that make us feel vulnerable, devastated, intrigued, relieved, and even happy at the same time. Regardless of whether a new start is planned or not, the fear of the unknown will always be there.
We, as individuals, are hardwired to resist change. Anything that takes us out of our comfort zone will trigger a feeling of panic and indecisiveness. Emmerson Human Capital Consulting explains how the amygdala, a part of the brain, interprets change as a threat to the body and releases the hormones for fear, fight or flight.²
The brain likes routine, and when a habit is altered, the brain and body will protect us from change and show some resistance. Uncertainty also contributes to elevated stress levels, and when combined with fear, negative emotions tend to rise steeply, which makes new starts challenging.
All these overwhelming feelings are normal. When going through a new beginning, start by changing your mind and your outlook. Preparing for the positive and the new, allows you to grow and look at your life’s events from a different perspective. Learn to embrace reality and adapt to your new life, and most importantly, do not let the things you cannot control gain control of your life. Bear in mind that change is natural, and it is good. The greatest gifts in our lives are those that are led by change, and I can certainly attest to that.
Today, seven years after leaving my home country, I can tell you that new beginnings, although difficult, are good and refreshing. I am very happy with my new life now and feel proud of everything my family and I have accomplished in so little time. Whenever I start a new beginning again, I will do it without fear, even if it seems scary at first, and you should too! Although opening up to new beginnings is easier said than done, you must remember that it is up to you and your mindset to dive through the process. A good attitude and emotional strength are key to making it through to the other side. Focus on creating a positive vision of the future and taking steps to solidify that vision into a reality. Show your brain the beauty of change and be persistent and patient. Embrace that fresh start and trust the process.
Your expectations will be plenty
The experiences many
Some of fear, some of courage
Some successes and some failure
Not meant to hurt you, not meant to judge you
But only meant to teach you
— — —
As change around us continues to accelerate
Our learning will and must never stop
The pace will pick up and then the storms will show
Being scared is perfectly normal
It’s a reminder of the opportunity for you to do something brave
Pursue bravery
Because fear can’t have permission to make your decision
Overcome it so you can Grow¹
[1] Khoobchandani, Haresh (2022). Growth by Choice: Make Space for the Better You. Write Editions
[2] Pennington, Chris (2018). We Are Hard Wired to Resist Change. https://www.emersonhc.com/change-management/people-hard-wired-resist-change#:~:text=Part%20of%20the%20brain%E2%80%94the,of%20benefits%E2%80%94will%20resist%20it.
