Transitions: 6 Steps to Managing Change

Sometimes change is sudden and unexpected––a corporate lay-off, an illness, a death of a spouse. Other times, we feel a stirring of discontentment for a while before we decide it's time to move on. Is it time for you to wake up? Recall six times in your life when you saw change coming and did something about it with good results. Do you get stuck at step 1? If so ask yourself the following questions: What do I need to face before I move on? What am I afraid to say “yes” to?

Step 2: Releasing the past

According to psychologists, we form our beliefs about how to view change between the ages of eight and twelve. Once you identify your beliefs, you can change them if you'd like. In this step, ask yourself: What have I lost or what will I be losing as a result of this change? Who have I been? Who do I want to be? Often, you have to accept that you are no longer who you were, before you can begin to imagine who you will become.

Step 3: Listening to your internal compass

Research on twins confirm that there is an inborn, genetic element to who we are that can guide us toward the most rewarding and successful paths for our lives. Twins who are reared apart share uncannily similar career and life paths! Use this fact to remind yourself to listen to your inner compass to guide you through changes. During this step assess yourself, find what gives you joy, and then take a stand to do it!

Step 4: Saying “Hello” to where you're going

It’s time to identify one clear direction that fits both with what you want to do in life and with the realities of what you can do. Here's an exercise to help you with this step. Make three lists: 1) what you love doing most, 2) your experience, contacts and background, and 3) the trends, problems, and unmet needs you notice around you. Brainstorm ways to combine elements of the three lists so that you blend your heart's desires with real-world reality–– play around with possibilities! Then identify two or three options your inner compass says "yes" to and start trying them on for size. What are you willing to commit to at this point? You need not be any further along the journey than where you are right now.

Step 5: How can I get there from here?

It's time to create a series of specific steps you can take to get from where you are to where you want to be. Can you take a flying leap into your new world or do you need to ease your way more gradually? Maybe you'll need a stepping stone approach––maintaining some elements of your current work or lifestyle as you step into the new. Maybe you'll need a helping hand to get you going. You're successfully navigating step five when you can complete the following statements: I'm ready to commit to doing...I've already done...and my next step is...

Step 6: Getting the show on the road

Time to set specific goals to accomplish each day. Ask yourself throughout the day, "What is most important to me?” Take care to fuel yourself so you'll have plenty of energy to get you through this time. How can you restructure your life to stop any energy drains? Here's a tip on pacing yourself: Fast track––initiate five things and follow-through on five things every day to get your new direction under way. Medium track––initiate five things and follow-through on five things every week. Slow track––initiate five things and follow-through on five things every month.
So you've mastered your change and now your life has taken on a new shape and new activities. Congratulations! And don't forget to save this article to guide you through the next change––there will be more––that's something you can count on!
Adapted from Your Perfect Work Sarah & Paul Edwards.

Seeking to find more fulfillment in your current work? Want to leave your current job but don't know where to go next? Call 909-941-0426 or email Ann: ann@authenticlifeinstitute.com to schedule a free collaborative interview!