Here are 5 tips for helping you navigate unexpected change that might even help you embrace the unexpected and turn it into unexpected joy.
1. Make a list of the things you can and cannot control
Experiencing an unexpected change like a pregnancy you haven’t planned for can make you feel powerless and stuck.
It’s a tough pill to swallow, but there are some things in your situation that you have zero control over. There are other things, however, that you can work to change!
In situations like these, it is so important to take a minute and really think about what you can and cannot change. It might even be helpful to make a list of each.
For example, it may seem like abortion is a way to change the fact that you are pregnant. The truth is, even if you choose to terminate your pregnancy, you cannot change the reality that you were pregnant, and this reality will affect you.
You can, however, work to change some of the circumstances that may be making this unplanned pregnancy especially difficult or challenging – like your job, relationship, or housing situation. There are lots of resources and so much support for you!
2. Feel your feelings & Care for Yourself
What you are going through is so, so hard. There’s no way around it! It’s normal to feel sadness, anger, or other emotions while going through an unexpected change like an unplanned pregnancy. Let yourself feel your feelings – trying to numb yourself or push down your emotions will never really work.
To make sense of your feelings, it can be so helpful to seek support from loved ones and even professional counseling. The Cline Center can connect you with professional counseling at no cost to you!
3. Be intentional with your thoughts & Priorities
You have three options – parenting, abortion, and adoption – you’re evaluating a major decision. Each of your choices is going to be difficult in some way. Two things can help you make the best decision for you:
- Being intentional with your thought patterns – spiraling into negative thought patterns can be an easy habit to slip into. Instead, think about your past and ways that you’ve been resilient before. Think about your strengths, not the ways in which you feel weak. Remember, you’re extraordinarily capable.
- Think about what’s really important to you – what do you want your future to look like? What are your goals? What are your values? Who are the most important people in your life? How will your decision affect your health?
Thinking about these things while making your decision will help you find clarity.
These are great topics to discuss with your advocate at the Cline Center!
4. Center in the Present, Think about the Future Calmly
If you make a decision for your unplanned pregnancy based on fear for the future, you may end up regretting that decision.
If you make a decision for the future based off your panic and fear right now, you may end up regretting that decision.
Try to find a balance between the two. Before you make a decision, learn about all of your choices, learn about all of the support options and resources available to you, and try to find a sense of peace in the now.
At the Cline Center, we want to meet every need or worry that you may have for the future.
We’re here for you. Reach out, today.