Life's Curveballs: How to Regain Your Sparkle After Major Events

Life throws curveballs. Whether it's a new job, a relationship ending, a period of ill health or a family crisis, major events can leave us feeling lost and off-kilter. We may look in the mirror and see a dull reflection of who we once were – our sparkle seems to have vanished.

But fear not! Change, even difficult change, is an inevitable part of life. And the good news is, we can emerge stronger, more resilient, and yes, with even more sparkle on the other side.

However unlikely that might feel, it just needs a little work but can be done.  I am walking proof, having lived through marriage, divorce, parenthood, caring for others and menopause, not to mention the odd health issue along the way!

On one occasion, it was only when one of my Mum’s friends commented to her that I seemed to have lost my sparkle and she repeated that to me, that I acknowledged there was a major problem in my life that needed facing!  Something had changed and I had been ignoring it too long - it wasn’t until I reached the other side and regained my sparkle that I realised what had been missing. The core me had got buried under responsibilities and trying to do "the right thing”.  

Sound familiar?

Well, if you need it, here are some ways to find your way back and reclaim that sparkle!

• Acknowledge Your Shift: Don't bottle up your emotions. Take time to acknowledge the impact the event has had on you. Talk to a friend, family member, or therapist. Journaling can also be a great way to manage your feelings.
  

• Revisit Your Values: Major life events can shake our sense of self. Take some time to revisit your core values. What truly matters to you? Reconnecting with your values will help you navigate this new chapter and rediscover what brings you joy.

• Embrace New Routines: Our routines give our lives structure and comfort. A major event might have disrupted yours. Instead of clinging to the old, embrace the opportunity to create new routines that better suit your current situation. This could be anything from starting a new exercise regime to joining a club or looking for a new direction in work.

• Spark Joy (Marie Kondo Style): Sometimes, a physical declutter can jumpstart a mental one. Go through your belongings and get rid of anything that no longer sparks joy (think old clothes, unused hobbies etc.). Letting go of the physical is so cathartic and can make space for the new and exciting to enter your life.

• Shine a Light on Self-Care: Self-care isn't selfish, it's essential. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, and exercising regularly. Don't forget to schedule activities you enjoy, even if it's just taking a long bath or reading a good book.

Remember, regaining your sparkle is a journey, and sometimes takes longer than you thought it would.   There will be good days and bad days. But by embracing change, reconnecting with yourself, and prioritising your well-being, you'll find your inner light shining brighter than ever before.