By Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino
Change often promises fresh starts and exciting opportunities. Yet, intertwined with every change—no matter how positive—is a sense of loss. This could be the loss of a loved one, a job, a relationship, or even something as subtle as a routine or identity. These losses trigger grief, a natural and necessary part of navigating life’s transitions.
Grief isn’t limited to the loss of people; it’s a universal response to losing anything we value deeply. Recognizing and honoring grief is essential to let go of the past and make space for growth.
This is a theme I’ve witnessed throughout my work and one beautifully explored in Dr. Katie Eastman’s book, Uplifting: Inspiring Stories of Loss, Change, and Growth. Her stories illuminate how grief can become a gateway to transformation when we allow ourselves to feel it, honor it, and grow through it.
As Dr. Katie Eastman explains, “Grief is not a roadblock to change; it’s the path we walk to find clarity, purpose, and renewal. When we embrace it, we allow ourselves the chance to grow through what we’ve been through.”
Grief: The Invisible Thread in Every Transition
Every change carries a sense of uncertainty, often accompanied by a longing for what once was. We might resist acknowledging our grief, fearing it’s too overwhelming or believing we “should” move on quickly.
However, grief doesn’t fade just because we ignore it—it waits for us to address it. Whether a change is self-chosen or unexpected, grief is an emotional undercurrent deserving of our attention.
Honoring Grief to Let Go
Letting go isn’t about forgetting or erasing the past; it’s about making peace with it and finding the courage to step forward. Here’s how you can honor your grief during times of change:
Acknowledge the Loss
Take time to name what you’ve lost—whether tangible, like a job, or intangible, like a sense of security or identity. Acknowledgment is the first step toward healing.
Allow Yourself to Feel
Grief is complex and nonlinear, showing up as sadness, anger, relief, or even numbness. Allow yourself to experience these emotions fully without judgment.
Share Your Experience
Grief can feel isolating, but sharing your journey with someone you trust—whether a friend, family member, or therapist—can be deeply healing.
Find Meaning in the Loss
Reflect on what you’ve learned through your grief. This isn’t about forcing positivity; it’s about uncovering meaning and clarity that can guide your next steps.
Take Gradual Steps Forward
Moving forward doesn’t have to be immediate. Letting go is a process that unfolds over time, allowing space for renewal.
Stories of Grief and Renewal
In Uplifting, Dr. Katie Eastman shares powerful stories of individuals like Sarah, a nurse whose career-ending injury forced her to reevaluate her identity and purpose. Initially resisting her grief, Sarah struggled to find footing in roles that didn’t resonate with her true self.
But when she gave herself permission to grieve the loss of her career, Sarah began to uncover new passions—writing and advocating for healthcare workers. Honoring her grief didn’t erase her pain, but it created space for growth and a renewed sense of purpose.
Why Grief is Essential for Growth
Grief isn’t a barrier to change—it’s a necessary bridge. By honoring the losses that accompany change, we allow ourselves to process emotions, integrate lessons, and step forward with clarity and intention.
"In my work, I’ve seen countless individuals transform grief into growth by creating space for reflection and connection. It’s not about “getting over” a loss but learning to carry its lessons forward into the future," says Dr. Eastman.
About Dr. Katie Eastman
Dr. Katie Eastman is a licensed psychotherapist, Master Grief Coach, and author of Uplifting: Inspiring Stories of Loss, Change, and Growth. She has dedicated her career to helping individuals and organizations navigate grief, loss, and life transitions with compassion and purpose.
Dr. Katie’s expertise draws on decades of experience working with people facing profound loss and change. Her unique approach blends empathy, practical tools, and storytelling to inspire healing and growth. In addition to her private practice, she is a sought-after speaker and consultant, empowering audiences to embrace grief as a catalyst for transformation.
To learn more about Dr. Katie Eastman and her work, visit DrKatieEastman.com.
Your Invitation to Let Go
If you’re navigating change, I invite you to pause and honor the grief that comes with it. Acknowledge what you’ve lost, reflect on what you’ve gained, and trust that letting go will open doors to new possibilities.
Change isn’t always easy, but it holds the potential for healing and transformation. Grief is part of this journey—a profound reminder of what matters most and a guide to help us move forward.
Let’s navigate it together.
Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino is a bestselling author, speaker, and the CEO of the Best Ever You Network. Her books, including The Change Guidebook, The Success Guidebook, and Percolate: Let Your Best Self Filter Through, inspire individuals to embrace change and live with purpose. Learn more at ElizabethGuarino.com
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