Grief Part II: Grief Isn’t Just Death… It’s Every Life Transition

Grief isn’t just about loss through death… it shows up in every major life transition.In this episode of Pause the Noise, Brian Lamar Stokes sits down with Coach Lena Wilson and Dr. Saarah Nicolas to unpack the hidden connection between grief and change. From identity shifts to parenting, career moves, and unexpected life events, they explore why even positive changes can feel heavy.You’ll learn how to:• Recognize grief in everyday transitions• Navigate emotional overwhelm• Shift your mindset from resistance to acceptance• Build resilience through life’s changesIf you’ve been feeling stuck, lost, or emotionally drained during a transition… this conversation will help you make sense of it.00:00 – Intro: Reflect & Reset01:07 – Why transitions often feel like grief02:04 – The 3 phases of transition (ending, neutral, beginning)02:34 – Change vs. transition explained03:24 – Grieving identity, routine, and expectations04:23 – Why even positive changes can feel heavy05:22 – Naming your grief and giving yourself permission to feel06:19 – Healthy vs. unhealthy coping in transitions08:34 – Signs you’re struggling (sleep, irritability, numbness)09:29 – Small steps to move forward10:25 – Resistance vs. embracing change12:26 – “Why is this happening to me?” mindset trap15:37 – Overthinking and shifting your mindset17:01 – Why transition is unavoidable for growth18:56 – Layered grief and why it feels overwhelming20:08 – Resilience: can it be built?21:48 – Lena’s story: divorce, motherhood, and survival mode23:43 – Why your hardest season isn’t your whole story25:08 – The moment everything shifted27:30 – Purpose through pain29:23 – “What does she deserve?” – powerful turning point30:11 – The role of purpose in healing31:28 – Parenting, slowing down, and being present34:23 – Kids grow fast… and the grief in that36:20 – Holding onto moments while they last36:53 – Life is constant transition37:23 – Final message: Be kind to yourself