Change Can Be Scary

Q: Hi I'm moving schools because I'm moving to a new city and I'll be leaving all my friends. I dont know what to do.

A: Leaving behind all that is familiar can be difficult. Change can bring about many different emotions: excitment of what's to come, fear of the unknown, sadness at leaving your friends and your current location and anger at having no control over having to move. These are very normal feelings.

When I was in grade 8 I moved to a different town. I was sad to be leaving my friends but most of all my best friend that I did everything with. I knew leaving her would be very hard to do and I didn't want to do it.

I can still remember the first day getting ready to go to my new school. When I walked on the school bus my stomach was filled with ‘butterflies.’ I didn't know anyone.

Since I was in grade 8 I had to sit at the back of the bus. I would have preferred to sit at the front with all the students in kindergarten in order to avoid walking the entire length of the bus with people staring at me, thinking 'who is she?'
Even though change can be scary it can also bring new opportunities to learn, grow and meet new people.

The decision to move may not have been your choice, but now you have the opportunity to choose to decide how you adapt and move through this change.

Here are some things that you can do to help you with the changes:
* Keep in touch with your current friends through letters, email and phone calls. It is always nice to hear a familiar voice.
* Be friendly and open to meeting new friends. Even though you may be afraid at first allow the fear to be replaced with courage.
* Keep a journal of your days and experiences. This will help you to express your thoughts and feelings.
* Share with your parents or someone you trust how you are feeling with the changes you are experiencing.
*Focus on the wonderful new experiences that are possible and the new friends you will create, instead of focusing on why you don't want to move.

Get ready for some new experiences and new friends. Choose to enjoy this change.

When you get up in the morning, take a deep breath and choose to start the day at your new school with courage and with a smile!

Until next time...

This has been 'my voice' but I respect that this is your life - this is 'your choice'

P.S. If you are faced with a circumstance where you need help, one of the best UPower choices you can make is to Reach Out to your parents/adults, teachers, principals, counsellors, friends or www.kidshelpphone.ca to get the support you deserve.
Keep reaching out until someone listens.