Grief isn’t just about losing a loved one. It’s about any major shift or end in the patterns of our lives. Let’s explore some tangible losses—those life changes we can see and touch. From job changes to moving homes, these events can disrupt more than just routines—they reshape how we view ourselves and our world.
What Are Tangible Losses?
Tangible losses are the ones that are easier to identify but come with some intangible changes as well. When we review our lives and search for grief events we’re looking for anytime there is a change or ending that carries conflicting emotions. These might include:
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Employment Changes
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Job Loss: Losing a job isn’t just about the loss of money—it’s about the loss of career identity and purpose.
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Career Transition: Excitement and anxiety can collide as you step into a new role.
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Promotion: Even positive changes bring adjustments in relationships and balance as a shift to manager or boss changes expectations.
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Marriage and Relationships
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Divorce or Breakup: The loss of shared dreams and routines hits hard.
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Role Changes in Marriage: New expectations can feel both thrilling and daunting as you decide how you will navigate holidays etc.
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Name Change: This seemingly small shift can affect your sense of self.
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Relocation
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Moving: Whether across town or to a new country, leaving behind what’s familiar can feel disorienting.
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Cultural Adjustments: Adapting to new traditions while mourning the old ones is a quiet but powerful grief.
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Daily Life Changes: Commuting routes, grocery stores, and neighbor relationships—all contributing to a sense of loss and adjustment.
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or lost during these changes. Grieving these transitions means acknowledging the emotions that come with them. Owning what's yours and giving back what's not. You don’t have to do it alone!
For additional support, explore our Comprehensive Grief Assessment, download our FREE Grief Recovery 101 Guide or dive into our Grief 201 Guide + Audiobook to learn practical tools for processing tangible losses and nurturing your emotional resilience.