Bidding farewell is an inevitable part of life, and for many, it can be a challenging emotional experience. Whether it’s the end of a school year or a major life milestone, goodbyes are often accompanied by a mix of joy and sadness. I remember my son’s time in elementary school, when each year drew to a close, and he would openly express his sorrow over leaving his classmates and teacher behind. His ability to share these emotions was a testament to the depth of connections he formed during those times, and it foreshadowed his pursuit of acting – a career centered around channeling and evoking emotions in others.

I remember when my son was in elementary school. At the end of every year, he would mourn the loss of the class with that teacher in that room together with those students. He reminisced about the laughter, the lessons learned, and the friendships forged within the confines of that classroom. As I watched his outward expression of emotions that many of us have learned to hold in, I couldn’t help but recognize the bittersweet nature of these goodbyes. It marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one, ripe with possibilities and new experiences.

As we enter the 21-day countdown to my son’s high school graduation, I am filled with pride and happiness. He has worked hard to reach this important milestone, but I also know that this will be his first major farewell. Although he may not ask for advice, I am prepared to support him through this transition. Here are three principles I would share with him – or anyone facing a significant goodbye:

1. Embrace your emotions: Give yourself permission to mourn, grieve, and cry. It’s natural to feel sadness as you leave behind a familiar environment, but it’s important to remember that this is a goodbye you want. No one wishes to repeat 12th grade, so embrace the emotions that come with moving on to the next chapter of life.
2. Shift the focus from yourself: Instead of dwelling on your feelings, consider the emotions of those around you. Use this opportunity to express gratitude towards teachers, friends, and anyone who’s been a part of your journey. Let them know how they’ve made a difference in your life, and in turn, your words will leave a lasting impact on theirs.
3. Goodbye doesn’t have to mean forever: As you part ways, remind yourself that today’s farewell doesn’t necessarily mean a permanent end. In our connected world, it’s easier than ever to stay in touch with people. Although you may lose contact with some, it’s important to remember that goodbyes can also mean “see you later” rather than “farewell forever.”

These strategies apply not only to graduations but also to other significant transitions, such as leaving a job. Instead of dwelling on what you’re leaving behind, shift your focus to the new opportunities and experiences ahead. Celebrate your achievements and embrace the excitement of moving forward. After all, goodbyes are an inevitable part of life – so let’s make the most of them and enjoy the journey!

Dr. Lisa

Our theme songs are “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye” by Boys II Men and “Happy” by Pharrell.