Change happens to everyone. In one way or another, life is always in flux. Transitions sometimes bring opportunity, and sometimes pain and sadness. But the more thoughtfully we experience them, the more satisfying life can be. Transitions happen throughout our lives: graduation, a new career, marriage, children, a sudden increase in wealth, a promotion, a parent’s death, a serious illness or accident, retirement and the sale of your business are just a few examples.

Each transition requires you to adapt to new circumstances in one way or another. Some people have a hard time dealing with change; some embrace it. Some stick close to what they are used to, while others refuse to acknowledge the change at all.

Transitions themselves are not good or bad. What distinguishes them is how you approach them. The more you can enter into the transition with openness and curiosity to find out what is coming, the more likely you are to find the change a healthy one. The bigger the change, the more important it is to allow yourself some time before you make major decisions. Give yourself a chance to adjust to your new status. You may find that your priorities have changed, as well.

Getting good advice can often be helpful, especially if it comes from someone who has been there before—a friend or a professional who can help you take best advantage of the opportunities that change sometimes brings. People rarely go through the same major life transitions twice. When it is the first time, you are likely to make mistakes—sometimes minor ones, but at other times, the mistakes may carry important consequences.

It is wise to talk with someone who works regularly with people who have gone through your kind of transition. His or her experience can help you better understand the implications and issues, and help you figure out how best to deal with things. For example, whether the change involves a divorce, inheritance or a sudden windfall, you want someone who has been there before and can help you make good decisions.

Do not just assume that you understand the situation you are in, especially when it comes to a major transition, because the choices you make can have long-term implications. Mistakes can significantly cost you if you do things without first getting advice. Oftentimes, it is important not to make a decision until you have done your research and talked to an expert.

An experienced advisor can help in two important ways: 1) by asking helpful questions, which encourage you to think about what is really important to you; and 2) by providing good technical and personal guidance to help you make the decisions you know are best for you.