Embracing Change– A Guide to Growth

Daniela Dohnert
Apr 23
3 min read

Updated: May 1

Change is one of life’s few certainties. And yet, for most of us, it’s also one of the hardest things to deal with. Whether it’s a shift in your job, your health, your relationships—or perhaps the emotional rollercoaster of raising a teenager—change can stir up fear, anxiety, and resistance.

But here’s the truth: resisting change leads to stagnation. Embracing it opens the door to growth.

As a life coach for parents and teens, I’ve seen firsthand how the discomfort of change—especially the unpredictable kind—can either break us down or shape us into more resilient, connected, and compassionate people. That’s why today I want to share insights on how to handle change in a way that promotes growth, especially when parenting teens.

Why We Naturally Resist Change

We’re hardwired to fear change. It’s a survival mechanism rooted deep in our biology. Any unknown—be it a job shift, a death, a hormonal shift, or your once cuddly child suddenly becoming a moody teen—can feel like a threat.

As parents, the teenage years often feel like a mini hurricane. Your teen is changing rapidly, emotionally and physically. And so are you. The old ways of parenting may no longer work, and that’s scary.

But resisting these changes can lead to more power struggles, disconnection, and stress. Embracing them, on the other hand, can lead to stronger bonds, deeper understanding, and a more peaceful home.

The Power of Staying Present

Most of the fear we experience isn’t about what’s happening right now. It’s about what might happen—or what we miss from the past. When our teen ignores us, rolls their eyes, or slams the door, our brain can go from “this is frustrating” to “they’re going to fail at life” in under a second.

To grow through change, we must bring ourselves back to the present.

Start by noticing your physical reactions:

Are your shoulders tight?
Is your jaw clenched?
Are you holding your breath?

Ground yourself. Focus on something small and real—like the sensation in your big toe or the feeling of your breath. This helps quiet the panic and keeps you rooted in the now.

When parenting teens, this grounding practice helps you respond thoughtfully instead of reacting emotionally. It creates space for connection rather than conflict.

Reframing the Fear

Once you’ve calmed your body, ask yourself: Is this fear based on something real and immediate, or is it a story I’m telling myself?

When you stop trying to control every outcome, you make room for learning and growth. The same goes for your teen. They’re figuring things out, just like you are. When you lead with curiosity instead of control, you become a guide—not a gatekeeper.

Celebrate the small wins. Acknowledge how far you’ve come as a parent. And remind yourself that just because your teen is changing doesn’t mean they’re lost. They’re evolving. And so are you.

Practical Ways to Embrace Change

Here are a few things you can try this week:

Start a Gratitude Practice: Write down 3 things you appreciate about your teen each day.
Check in With Yourself: Notice when fear creeps in and pause before reacting.
Connect Through Curiosity: Ask your teen what they think about a topic without correcting them.
Celebrate Milestones: Whether it’s their first job, getting through a tough test, or just making it through the week—celebrate it.