Embracing Transition: Navigating Change and Discovering New Paths

And we are back - only this time on The Lynette Fay Show - It’s all about real life, good music and everything in between – every day is different.

As promised we continued our conversation on transition and we could have talked for hours. Catch it back here How to change your life!

Transition is a transformative process that can be both exciting and daunting. It involves stepping out of our comfort zones, exploring new possibilities, and embracing the unknown. I am grateful to have had the guidance of my executive coach, Lisa Strutt, MCIPD who has been instrumental in helping me, and countless other people, navigate this transformative phase of life.

Recognizing the Uncomfortable:

Transition often presents us with unanswered questions and uncertainties. It can be challenging to cover such a vast topic in a short radio segment, but I believe that leaning into the discomfort and embracing the unknown is essential for personal growth. I had the privilege of having Lisa join me on the show to ensure that my story is not seen as the only narrative. Transition is unique to each individual, shaped by their circumstances, aspirations, and personal journey. It is important to acknowledge that and have the research and insights provide valuable guidance for others experiencing or wanting to experience similar transitions.

My Transition Journey:

My own transition began during lockdown, following my involvement with Moment Health and my part-time remote work with Ladies Who Launch . I then embarked on a short stint in a startup, which led me to realign my purpose and goals, combining my decade of community leadership with Lean In in gender equality which evolved to cover diversity and inclusion in its entirety, and twenty years of business experience, to my work in the third sector. This was the initial step of my transition. I actively sought opportunities to contribute to inclusion in Northern Ireland, participating in the executive leadership program with the Centre for Democracy and Peace and taking on a global advisory role with Lean In Networks. Additionally, I joined the board of the NOW Group , lending my platform and influence to promote autism and neurodiversity as part of corporate responsibility and inclusion as a business imperative. My committee role with the IoD Northern Ireland further fueled my passion for action in industry and connecting the private, public and third sector up in meaningful ways to build an inclusive economy.

Lisa shares some more valuable insights below...

Planning and Support:

Embarking on a transition requires careful planning and consideration. It is crucial to address the various factors and involve loved ones in the decision-making process. In my case, a family decision was made to determine what was possible and when. It is essential to understand that each transition is unique, and seeking help and support is vital in navigating the challenges and uncertainties.

The Dual Nature of Transition:

Transition encompasses a range of emotions and experiences. Lisa aptly described it as a "both...and" phenomenon. It is natural to feel a mix of fear and excitement when taking the next step. Transition liberates us, allowing us to make decisions that align with the life we truly desire. To gain clarity about our aspirations, it can be helpful to imagine how we want to be remembered. What would we want our obituary to say? This exercise can guide us in defining our goals and shaping our transition journey.

Transition as a Process:

Transition should be viewed as a process rather than an event. Often, our thoughts and feelings are stirred long before we make a conscious decision to change. For instance, we may yearn for a better work-life balance and sense the need for a shift, prompting us to explore possibilities and gather information. Sometimes, unexpected events such as health scares, redundancies, or relationship breakdowns push us onto a different trajectory. Making sense of these changes shapes the next chapter of our lives.

Navigating Emotions:

Self-awareness is crucial during times of transition. Identifying and acknowledging our feelings helps us understand our values and prioritize our relationships. Writing down our emotions and seeking input from trusted individuals can provide valuable insights into our blind spots and strengths. Naming our emotions allows us to tame them and make more informed decisions about the actions we want to take.

The Power of Transition Journaling:

Keeping a journal during the transition process is invaluable. Documenting our progress, thoughts, feelings, and insights helps us gain clarity and reflect on our journey. Creating a list of non-negotiables establishes boundaries and defines our transition goals. At the end of each day, it is beneficial to ask ourselves what meaningful actions we took. Recognizing the microsteps we have taken prevents us from feeling stagnant and encourages continuous progress.

Embracing Imperfection and Patience:

Letting go of the pursuit of perfection is essential during transition. Progress is more important than perfection, and the fear of making mistakes should not hinder our growth. We must be open to exploring different paths and experimenting with new versions of our story. Transition is a process that takes time, with an average duration of around five years, encompassing the stages of letting go, the messy middle, and the emergence of a new chapter.

Thanks Lisa.

In sharing my vulnerable and honest journey, I hope to inspire and encourage others who are navigating their own transitions. Transition is a transformative phase that offers immense opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment. With the guidance and support of individuals like Lisa, we can embrace change, discover our true passions, and shape the next chapter of our lives.

If you want to connect with Lisa for some expert help head to https://lisastrutt.co.uk

Her TedX is on YouTube, “Life After Death” - navigating big life transitions. https://tinyurl.com/5n6uvy4m