Life today can seem so much more complicated than it used to be. Many of us spend a lot of time on the internet with what seems like a first-class ticket into someone’s life. We often see others celebrating the wins in their life by showing off their luxuries, whether that’s money, vacationing, clothing, shoes, bags, etc. However, it’s essential to realize that this is not their life story; it’s a snippet. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget this and slip into comparison mode. These moments often leave us feeling or thinking that our life isn’t exciting, moving fast enough, or winning. Here’s the reality: life isn’t a highlight reel—it’s messy, unpredictable, and full of moments that make you question everything. For those who can relate—those of us figuring out careers, relationships, and ourselves in real time—it’s easy to feel stuck in a space of frustration and transition. Welcome to life’s in-between season.
Maybe you’re in a job that feels like a dead end, unsure about your next steps, nearing the end of a chapter in your story, or just waiting for life to “click.” Whatever your situation, know this: feeling lost or frustrated doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re growing. It shows that things around you are changing, and your life is moving. At times, we question which direction to take, but in the same way, we can make U-turns on the road and U-turns in life. It’s important to trust yourself to take chances, even if they only end up in lessons learned. If you find yourself in the in-between season, rejoice that the gap can serve as time for reflection and preparation. Each chapter in our story serves a purpose and can be used to improve in the coming chapters.
Acknowledging that you’re in the in-between can also position you to take advantage of the “pause” by planning for what’s next. Embracing the in-between can help you give voice to what you want your next chapter to include, look like, and embody. Regardless of these facts, we are all human, and it can be hard to embrace life’s in-betweens. Friend, I hear you, but I’m sorry this won’t stop them from coming. So, as we prepare for or work out of life’s in-between seasons, let’s talk about what it looks like to be in this space, how to sit with it, and how to hold on to hope. Here are five tips to help you accept where you are, feel your feelings, and move toward the life you want.
1. Let Frustration Be Your Guide during the in-between season
Frustration isn’t bad—it’s your inner compass pointing out what’s not working. Frustration is a sign and opportunity to call a “time-out” so that you can return to the drawing board. Instead of trying to shove it down or distract yourself, take a moment to ask: What’s bothering me, and why? This isn’t about having all the answers immediately but recognizing what you want to change. Write it out, talk it out, or just let yourself acknowledge it.
2. Stay in Your Lane
It’s hard not to compare yourself to others—especially with everyone sharing their wins online. As we enter the new year, I’m sure your timelines and newsfeeds have flooded with other people’s “wins.” But the truth is, no one’s life is as perfect as it seems on social media. Remind yourself: you’re on your timeline. You don’t need to be ahead, and you’re not behind. You’re exactly where you need to be for your journey.
3. Feel What You Feel
If you’re angry, sad, or just plain confused—feel it, sit with it, acknowledge that it’s there. Seriously. No one’s expecting you to have it all figured out. We genuinely are all living for the first time…for real! Let yourself cry, vent, or sit with the heaviness without rushing to fix it. Emotions don’t have to make sense; they need space to exist. Once you acknowledge that they’re there, they’ll lose some of their grip, and you’ll have more energy to focus on what’s next.
3. Find the Small Joys
When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to forget the little things that make you smile or the past wins you gained. But even tiny moments of joy can be enough to keep you going. They can remind you that there’s hope for the future, there are good things within you, and a reminder that it’s ok to embrace rest. Watch your favorite show, walk in the sun, text someone who always makes you laugh, read old journal entries, or look at old vision boards. These tiny sparks remind you that there’s still good to be found even on hard days.
5. Keep the Door Open for Hope
Hope doesn’t have to be some grand, life-changing thing. Sometimes, it’s just a whisper: This won’t last forever. Start small. Set one goal for the week, like trying something new or celebrating a small win. Remember the challenging moments you’ve made it through before. They were hard, but you survived—and you’ll survive this too.
Give Yourself Grace
Being in the in-between doesn’t mean you’re stuck forever. It’s a placeholder, not your whole story. Give yourself the same kindness you’d give a friend/ loved one in your position. You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Trust that where you are is part of the process, and better days are ahead. While you’re here, you might as well celebrate yourself through rest, love, compassion, and preparation.
