Embracing Change: Learning to let go


Embracing change has always been a challenge for me. It’s something I continue to work on every day, which is why I wanted to share a few thoughts about it.

Life is full of constant change—our work, education, relationships, and even our physical appearances are always evolving. We’re part of an ever-changing world, and that can be difficult to navigate at times. For me, embracing certain changes has become harder as I’ve gotten older. One of the biggest areas of struggle has been accepting the physical changes in myself. My body, my face, even the way I carry myself—it’s all different now from how I looked and felt when I was 16, 17, or 18. I’ve had to slowly learn to come to terms with that, to stop holding onto outdated versions of myself, and start embracing the person I am now.

Why Does Change Feel So Hard?

Change often brings uncertainty. We lose the comfort of what we’ve always known and are forced to adjust to new realities. For me, part of the struggle has been a lack of control. I like to know what to expect to some extent—and unexpected change disrupts that.

When I started noticing differences in my body, for example, it wasn’t that they were bad—in fact, I’m arguably the healthiest and fittest I’ve ever been. Still, there were moments when I felt a strange disconnect from myself. It’s not just physical. It’s emotional. It’s the quiet grieving of who you used to be, even when you’re proud of who you’re becoming.

When My Perspective Shifted

You know those moments when you find yourself scrolling through old photos on your phone, reminiscing? The other day, I came across a photo of me on holiday a few years ago. At first, it made me feel weirdly sad. That version of me seemed carefree, living without stress or anxiety, not worrying about exams or career plans.

But the more I looked at that photo, the more I realized how far I’ve come. How much I’ve grown. That younger version of me had no idea who she’d become. And while I may look different now—and have more responsibilities that demand me to be grounded and less carefree—I am still her. Just with more life experience and a deeper understanding of myself.

How I’m Learning to Embrace Change

I’ve learned that change doesn’t always mean loss—it often means growth. That shift in mindset has helped me reframe the way I think. Instead of focusing on what I’m leaving behind, I try to focus on what I’m gaining: experience, emotional depth, a clearer sense of self.

Here are a few things that have helped me on this journey:

1. Practice Gratitude

I know I’ve mentioned this in other posts, but it’s worth repeating—it matters. Reminding yourself how far you’ve come and recognizing the blessings in your life right now can ground you during times of change.

2. Shift Your Perspective

Instead of seeing change as a loss, view it as evolution. If someone leaves your life unexpectedly, rather than overthinking why, try asking:

  • What did this person teach me while they were here?

  • What can I learn from this experience?

3. Stay Present

When I’m overwhelmed, I bring myself back to the present moment. Often, anxiety comes from fearing the unknown. Staying grounded in the now helps to quiet that fear.

4. Let Go of What You Can’t Control

This is a big one—and something I’ll dive into more deeply in another blog. But learning to release the things I can't control and focus on what I can has been a major shift in my mindset.

5. Surround Yourself With Supportive People

Talk to friends, family, or a community you're part of when you’re struggling. You don’t need solutions—sometimes you just need someone to listen and hold space for you.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

There are still days I need to cut myself some slack and remind myself: change can be hard, and that’s okay. You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed, to pause, to process.


Change is uncomfortable. It challenges us. But it also invites us to grow. I’m still learning to embrace the many changes life throws my way—especially the ones I can’t control. But instead of meeting them with fear, I’m trying to meet them with curiosity and openness.

And maybe—just maybe—there’s something incredibly beautiful in letting go of who I used to be and learning to love the person I’m becoming.

Love always,

Ruby xo 

 


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