Section 2
Reflecting on Life Shifts
Adulthood is often marked by periods of stability punctuated by significant transitions—such as career changes, marriage, parenthood, divorce, relocation, health challenges, or the loss of loved ones. These “life shifts” can bring both stress and opportunity. While change may feel unsettling, it also opens the door to reevaluating priorities, reconnecting with core values, and identifying strengths that support adaptation.
Reflecting on these shifts allows adults to pause and process their experiences instead of moving through them on autopilot. By looking back on what has changed and forward to what is emerging, adults gain clarity, resilience, and self-awareness. This process not only reduces emotional strain but also creates a narrative of growth—reminding individuals that change, while difficult, often leads to new possibilities and a deeper understanding of themselves.
Why “Reflecting on Life Shifts” Matters
Transitions deeply influence well-being: Life changes, whether perceived as positive (a promotion, a new relationship) or stressful (loss, health decline), require psychological adaptation. Structured reflection helps individuals integrate these experiences in healthier ways (Holmes & Rahe, 1967; Schlossberg, 1981).
Fosters resilience and meaning-making: Research shows that reflecting on life events supports the process of finding meaning, which is strongly linked to resilience and psychological growth after transition or trauma (Park, 2010; Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004).
Improves emotional regulation: Adults who actively process their experiences through reflection report reduced stress, greater clarity about their emotions, and stronger coping strategies (King & Hicks, 2009).
Supports identity continuity and growth: Reflection helps adults understand how their identities evolve through change while maintaining a sense of continuity with their past selves. This builds stability during uncertain times (Pasupathi & Mansour, 2006).
Promotes purpose and satisfaction: Engaging in reflection during transitions is linked to stronger life purpose, better alignment of goals with values, and overall higher well-being (Ryff, 2014; Schulenberg & Melton, 2010)..