Most of the people that we coach in personal and business life are dealing with significant change. This is truer now more than ever as the circumstances of the world around us has brought so much upheaval, loss of loved ones, homes, businesses, freedoms; also new working environments and ways of doing things. Emotions that accompany these seasons of change range from fear, bewilderment, anxiety, depression, despondency, frustration (in response to perceived negative changes) … to relief, excitement, inspiration and anticipation (in response to perceived positive changes).
So what do we need to know to be able to cope well with big changes in our lives and businesses? How do we help those around us to cope?
1. We need to understand that there is a difference between change and transition.
This is an important distinction, made by William Bridges in his well known Transition Model.
Change is the external event or situation that takes place. Change can happen very quickly. Change may be initiated by the decisions you make, decisions other people make or circumstances and events out of your control. Change can put people in crisis.
Transition, however, is the inner psychological process that we must go through as we internalize and come to terms with the new situation that the change brings about. Transition takes time, usually 3 years after a dramatic change such as relocating to a new country, changing careers, divorce, starting a new business or losing someone significant.
2. We can get stuck in the wilderness of transition and struggle for years ‘in lostness”.
Feelings of flux, confusion and anxiety are normal when dealing with change. Supporting ourselves and others through transition, rather than pushing mindlessly forward is essential if we are to transition well.
A successful transition means identifying, mourning and obtaining closure on what has been lost or left behind, a period of empathy and grace to heal, recalibrate and re-energize, and then the planning of strategies to successfully enter into and live in the new.
We need extra support, guidance and time for reflection and integration to ensure we don’t get stuck in limbo between the old and the new; with one foot in the past and one in the future and never fully “arriving”.
3. There are opportunities in transition.
Periods of transition can be great times of creativity, innovation and designing the life you want to live. It can be a time to step back and rediscover your identity, your purpose and your new vision for the future. It can bring restoration and renewal and be very exciting!
4. There is help available to us.
There are tools we can employ to help us transition well. There is help to be found. Psychologists and counsellors can help us recover from shock, trauma and loss, a coach can help us find purpose, direction and plan intentionally and creatively for the new season ahead, and a support structure of trusted friends and mentors can give us courage and guidance as we navigate our new territory.
How can we help you?
Periods of transition are absolutely critical seasons in your personal and business life. The effects of the level of clarity you obtain, decisions you make and the strategies you plan during your transition have a major impact on your life ahead. Open Spaces Africa offers workshops, coaching packages and peer support communities that are designed to specifically meet the challenges and opportunities you have and will meet during this time with the aim to help you to heal, grow and thrive your way into your next season. Please reach out to us to find out which might be right for you, follow our social media pages or subscribe to our newsletter to find out about upcoming workshops and events and to get a fresh dose of inspiration and encouragement to help you on your journey.