Someone called the other day, obviously in great distress. He asked me to tell him exactly what I did and how I worked.
Because each client is in a very different place when they call, I cannot say that I always do this, this, & this. Is your company merging because you are buying another firm? Pragmatic steps of creating a new culture are followed by what will you insource, outsource? Who fits the new culture and can remain? Who do you want to become as the new leader of a business 2-3 times the size of your old organization? How do you want to be seen?
You are preparing for retirement and want to define the plans for your next stage of life. Full retirement? Opening a newer, smaller, business? Travel? Volunteering? Defining your purpose? Finally, how do you want to live this stage?
Divorce? Dealing with a job change and all the personalities/power struggles, etc.? Expanding streams of income? It’s a very different process. How do you want to enter that brand new world? What parts of you do you want to rediscover? Release? Solidify? Expand? Each client confronts, runs, avoids, and deals in their own unique way.
Nonetheless, when undergoing a period of transition in life, there are a few clear, and concise, steps to take – each requires quiet and honest introspection.
Assess:
- How would you describe where you are now?
- What would you say is instigating this change – be honest with yourself – many aren’t initially……..
- Why did it occur?
- Where is it you would want to go now?
- What positive lessons have you learned from your past experiences that prepare you for where you are going?
- Who do you want to become when you arrive at this new stage of your life?
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- Relationships? Friendships? Partner? Children? Associates? Pets?
- Financial status?
- Location?
- Entrepreneur? Volunteering?
- A whole new life or refresh of previous?
- What stories do you need to release to make all this possible?
On one hand, it is clear and almost simple. You were there, now you’re here. Two steps. However, in my experience it requires time, an extensive willingness to stop, reevaluate, and get a clear picture of the stories that can defeat you before you start, and then knowing exactly what you want next, and why. The why is the truly powerful motivator and joy.
Every transition opens you to infinite possibilities, growth, change, joy, adventure, letting go, and fears. What do you choose to focus on and why?
