Transitions are naturally times and seasons of turmoil. I’m convinced the tragedy in transition comes when we fail to pause long enough to process the change...not just the change happening outwardly, but more importantly the change taking place within us. Effectively managing the turmoil of transitions is no easy process, but with some patience and intentionality it can be done. Here’s some strategies for managing the turmoil of transition...
1. AVOID BIG LEAPS IF POSSIBLE
The path of hurried, unreflective transition is fraught with danger.
When not paying attention, we’re prone to leap rather than take the series of steps transition requires. It’s difficult to see what’s behind us, what’s in front, and anything in-between while a leap is in motion. We just don’t have time to gather our thoughts and enjoy the view, let alone gather much needed perspective along the way. We tend to only see what’s in front of us, and even our vision of that is blurred. More often than not, we do well to avoid the big leaps and move in a progression of steps.
2. REMEMBER AND RECONSTRUCT
Change and upheaval seems to break life down into fragments. Life in fragments is not easy to navigate, but with it comes opportunity for a new kind of wholeness. Rummaging through the storehouse of memories helps us engage the prayerful process of discernment, gain clarity and reconstruct a strategy for moving forward. Remembering is a process of bringing meaning out of the fragments of our lives. Author Bruce Feiler explains,
“When in turmoil, turn to narrative. The proper response to a setback is a story....reimagining and reconstructing our personal stories is vital to living a fulfilling life.”
- Life is in the Transitions: Mastering Change at any Age
“This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” -Jeremiah 6:16
3. DON’T MISS THE MOMENTS
“I believe that God is often providing the opportunity for transition, but since we don’t have eyes to see it we may have been missing it.”
- John Eldridge, Get Your Life Back
What are the transitional moments within your larger transition? And how can you leverage them in a meaningful, life giving way? Eldridge goes on to explain that allowing for transition from one thing to the next is simply a way of being kind to ourselves. I agree. We cannot sustain rough landings and quick starts for very long without the process taking its toll on our hearts, minds and bodies. Be kind to yourself. Make room for the little transitions throughout the day.
I recently set up reminders for myself to pause, reflect and pray. In between coaching sessions, writing, or some other task, I intentionally pause, sometimes even stepping outside to observe and express gratitude to the God of all creation. These small transition moments have made working from home more sustainable. To fill every moment of our lives for efficiency’s sake makes for a robotic existence!
Want some more tips for navigating a successful transition?
Download my free pdf, 5 Essentials for a Winning Transition here.