Transitions: Are You In One? Chances Are, Yes!
I was surveyed recently about how many transitions I had been through in my life. 2-3, 4-8, 9-15, 20+??? I started thinking about it. It led me to rapidly counting moves I had made, marriage, un-marriage, relationships, children, life stages??? That got me to thinking about the definition of a transition.
“Transition: the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.” Wow! That could encompass a lot.
In Bruce Feller’s book, Life Is in the Transitions, he explains that several university studies claim we go into a transition every 5 years and that they last 5 years. This would mean that we are always in some form of transition in some area of life. So what transition are you in? The “Dynamic Life” I so eagerly promote is all about loving the transitions and leaning into them. Looking at what is great about them, planning for them and enjoying them.
We all remember the iconic song Turn, Turn, Turn with lyrics taken from Ecclesiastes 3:1-7, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven.” As I watch the autumn leaves burst into every color of gold, orange and red, I am reminded we are in another season. Winter is coming…some of us will be dreading the dark cold days and others of us will be excited that snowboarding and skiing, fires crackling, and a crisp fresh snap is in the air. (I pick the 2nd).
As you reflect on your Transitions here are 3 things to consider:
- Stop! Acknowledge the change: The seasons will happen and it is guaranteed. Statistics are saying you are going in or coming out of a transition. What could you love about this? What is the added bonus? I dreaded having to pack up my entire house for a remodel. The bonus? I sifted through everything determined that nothing that wasn’t wonderful would be in the “new” space! Feels soooo good!
- Notice your emotions: How do you feel? Choose the emotions that will serve you and carry you through. Notice if it is time to learn or let go to move forward into the next season.
- Be intentional: Point yourself in the direction you want to go and start moving. Follow your plan…and if you have been reading or watching the Dynamic Life Blog, I have lots to say about having a plan you can follow through on that gives you results and you feel fulfilled in because you experience progress. (You can always go back and review past episodes)
Today, stop and reflect on transitions you have successfully navigated. Notice where you may be in transition now. Decide what you want on the other side of it…I couldn’t wait to move to my new home in Montana (although the transition of packing a house and driving through 6 states was daunting). I focused on how it would be and what was waiting for me there. I can’t wait to hear about your successful Transitions as we all venture out in our Dynamic Life.
For more on having a truly the life of fulfillment visit: DynamicLife.com
See you next time,
Cynthia