Embracing the Season of Transition

In Middle Tennessee, the season of transition is upon us. The leaves are ablaze with orange and yellow hues, preparing to drift gently to the Earth. Nature, in all its wisdom, is moving toward winter—a reminder that transitions are a natural, inevitable part of life.

For many of us, the idea of transition sparks hope and longing. Perhaps you're dissatisfied with your current job, yearning for a higher salary, or dreaming of work that feels truly fulfilling. While some boldly leap into new opportunities, others feel tethered by responsibilities—mortgages, family obligations, and the fear of financial instability.

The Story of Joe Moglia: A Lesson in Bold Transitions

Joe Moglia’s journey offers inspiration for anyone contemplating a big change. Once an assistant college football coach, Joe loved his work but couldn’t support his growing family on his $33,000 salary. He stepped away from coaching and ventured into the financial world, where his charisma and determination helped him rise to become CEO of TD Ameritrade.

But wealth wasn’t Joe’s ultimate goal—his heart still belonged to football. Secure in his financial success, Joe transitioned back to his passion. Starting as a volunteer assistant at Nebraska, he eventually became the head coach at Coastal Carolina University, living the dream he’d set aside years before. (Joe coached at Costal Carolina University for almost a decade).

Joe’s story shows us that transitions, while daunting, can lead to profound fulfillment when pursued with courage and a plan.

Overcoming the Fear of Change

Not everyone’s transition story is as straightforward as Joe’s. Many of us feel stuck, burdened by financial obligations and the fear of failure. But staying in a place of discontent doesn’t have to be your story.

Kevin McNulty, a career transition coach and friend, offers a roadmap for navigating these challenges. His advice is simple yet powerful: embrace a “split personality” approach to your career aspirations.

• Step 1: Stay Grounded in Your Present Keep your current job to maintain financial stability. This isn’t about abandoning responsibility; it’s about building a bridge to your future while ensuring your present is secure.
• Step 2: Cultivate Your Dream Let your alter ego—the part of you that dreams big—take action. Identify the steps needed to transition to your ideal career. Whether it’s enrolling in a course, attending seminars, or finding a mentor, every small effort moves you closer to your goal.

Creating Your Safety Net

Kevin emphasizes the importance of financial preparation. Develop a six-month savings plan to cover expenses during the transition. This cushion will ease your fears and give you the freedom to explore your next chapter without immediate pressure.

Seasons of Change and Growth

Like the changing seasons, life moves in cycles. Transition is an opportunity to shed the old and embrace the new. It’s a chance to design a season of joy and fulfillment rather than settling for discontent.

Remember, change doesn’t happen overnight. But with a clear plan, a supportive network, and the courage to take that first step, you will eventually thrive in your new direction.

About the author:

Dr. Gregg Steinberg was ranked by Golf Digest as one of the world’s greatest sport psychologist, and he is a professor of human performance at Austin Peay State University. He is author of the Washington Post bestselling business book "Full Throttle" and speaks to businesses about peak performance, and how to thrive under pressure. See more free videos and articles like this one at www.emotionaltoughnessuniversity.com.

If you have any questions or comments please e-mail him at [email protected] and learn more at www.drgreggsteinberg.com