We go through all kinds of transitions in life, at times they happen knowingly at times they are sudden. No matter if it is a positive or negative event, it will bring changes. Changing states refers to moving from one state to another. Transition occurs when the current normal ends and before you arrive at the new one. It can differ from person to person and situation to situation. Transitions that occur commonly include getting married, having children, losing a job, buying a house, or loss of a loved one. You can build resilience and increase your capabilities through each of these experiences. The emotional effects of these transitions can be extreme, fear, sadness, chaos, confusion, uncertainty, helplessness, but also hope, joy, happiness, anticipation, possibilities and good feelings. In this emotional turmoil, any decision you make is going to affect you financially for the rest of your life. As ironic as it may sound, the brain is not in a position to make sensible decisions when it’s most needed.

Dealing with financial issues when you feel anxious can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, there is no other way out, so you’ll have to make those tough decisions the best way you can. Getting married, having a child, or buying a home are foreseeable transitional events, but loss of a loved one, accidents, or losing a job can be unexpected. Preparing for these unpredictable situations and building resilience can help you face them head-on and bounce back from any challenges life throws your way.

You should not wait until you face a life-changing issue to make financial decisions. Adapting to new and unexpected situations takes foresight and preparation. During any phase of transition – beginning, passage, ending or new normal – you can ask yourself these three questions.

• What should I protect?

You cannot live without these and they are dear to your heart. A home, a collectible, your relationships, etc., are things you will keep regardless of what it takes and there will never be a second thought about doing away with them.

• What should I let go?

Identify things you can afford to give up in the new phase of your life even if they were a vital part of the previous one. This may not be as easy as it sounds. When it comes to sentimentally valued objects or relationships, it takes a lot of courage to make such a decision.

• What should I create?

Take advantage of the opportunity to define your life the way you want it. Although you may miss aspects of your past, this is a chance to live the life you want.

These three questions can help you deal with any issue you may encounter at different stages of your life. Knowing these changes are part of life will help you prepare for them and face them with courage. With time, you will realize that some changes are for the better.

In words, it sounds much simpler than it is in practice. What do you do to make sure your emotions don’t influence your decisions? Do you know how to make the right decisions both when things are going well and when things are not? Contact a financial transitionist to learn how. They are equipped with knowledge and empathy to help you navigate nonlinear emotional changes that come with transitions. Furthermore, they will help you make decisions based on rationality, impact, and your preferences.