Navigating Change: Part I – Embracing Self-Initiated Transitions
Life is filled with transitions, some we initiate and others are forced upon us by outside forces. Understanding the nature of these shifts can help us navigate them with more grace, resilience, and awareness.
Defining Transitions
A transition is a period of change, a bridge between what was and what is to come and the path is rarely straightforward. Broadly, transitions can be categorized into two types:
Self-Initiated Transitions: These are changes we actively seek out, motivated by personal desire, ambition, or necessity. They come from within you.
Forced Transitions: These are changes imposed upon us, often without warning, that challenge our sense of control and stability. They are forced upon you.
This article will focus on self-initiated transitions—the moments when we choose change.
Understanding Transitions
Transitions, whether we initiate them or they’re thrust upon us, tend to unfold in phases. The first phase is endings—those moments when we’re called to let go, whether willingly or not, of what’s familiar. It can be the hardest part of any transition because it often involves loss—whether it’s leaving behind a career, a relationship, or a lifestyle that once defined us.
Then comes the messy middle, that in-between space where everything feels uncertain and we walk the edge of our own limitations. This is where discomfort thrives and our brains work overtime recycling thoughts. We question ourselves, we encounter setbacks, and we wonder if we’re on the right path. It’s easy to feel lost, to question whether we’ve made the right choice. But the messy middle is where the real transformation happens - we face the unknown, and step outside the comfort zone.
Finally, we arrive at new beginnings. This is the moment when we start to emerge from the chaos, when the dust begins to settle, and we open ourselves to the possibilities that lie ahead.
Self-Initiated Transitions
Sometimes, we feel the need to evolve and challenge ourselves, pushing beyond our comfort zones to explore new possibilities. This could manifest as deciding to go back to school, starting a business, or relocating for a fresh start. Other times, the decision comes from a place of dissatisfaction or stagnation. It comes from a place of suffering and instability. When we feel stuck in an unfulfilling job, relationship, or environment, it’s a sign that it may be time to turn the page.
Some transitions are born from an internal calling, a pull toward something new even when the current situation feels comfortable. A stable professional may feel the need to travel the world, start a passion project, or make a dramatic life change simply because it aligns with their true desires or temperament.
The Emotional Landscape of Self-Initiated Transitions
Even when we consciously choose change, the journey is rarely free of emotion. Stepping into something new often brings a thrilling sense of control and ownership over our lives, whether it’s the excitement of moving to a new city, starting a business, or pursuing a long-held dream. Alongside the clarity and positive emotions, there are often less pleasant, high-energy feelings like fear and self-doubt, especially when we’re faced with the uncertainty of leaving behind what’s familiar. The possibility of a new experience can stir a complex mix of excitement and fear. Questions like, Did I make the right choice? What if I fail? are bound to arise, but it’s important to remember that self-doubt is a natural part of the process—it doesn’t mean the decision was wrong.
Navigating Self-Initiated Transitions
In the children’s classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, the refrain repeats: "You can't go over it, you can't go under it, you've got to go through it." This rhythmic chant mirrors the truth about transitions, particularly those we initiate ourselves. Change is rarely simple, and we often wish we could bypass the difficult parts—sidestepping uncertainty, skipping over the messy middle, or avoiding discomfort altogether. But, like the bear hunt, the only way forward is to move through it.
Discomfort is a natural part of transformation, especially in self-initiated changes. Rather than rushing to resolve it, allow yourself to sit with these feelings. Journaling is a powerful tool for processing inner tension and gaining perspective on what lies ahead. Ask yourself: What am I hoping to gain from this transition? What values does this change align with? Reflect deeply on your reasons for embarking on this journey and the new possibilities it can create. If you’re leaving a job, for instance, remind yourself you’re seeking more freedom, fulfillment, or growth—things your current situation can no longer provide.
Change doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Start by taking small, manageable steps that build momentum over time. Move at a pace that feels right for you, and lean into your support system. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you—seek mentors, peers, or communities who’ve walked similar paths and can offer guidance as you go.
Conclusion
As you stand at the edge of your own transition, ask yourself: What change am I ready to embrace? And how will I show up for myself in the process?