Growing up in a military family as a daughter, and then marrying a military man, has given me great insight and understanding of the word change. I learned that a PCS is a physical move, and with a PCS comes a change on many levels—a change of duty station, a change of climate, a change of housing, a change of friends, a change in a marriage relationship, a change of schools for children, and the huge life-change that comes with deployment of a spouse. Other major life changes we may face include retirement, downsizing, divorce, death of a loved one, health issues, or a broken relationship. 

For many women, change is expected, anticipated, and planned. For others, change is unexpected, challenging, and an emotional struggle. Change is a small word with a big impact. Sometimes we are blindsided by what’s coming, other times we hit it head on. We either react or respond. Here are some common reactions to change.