The Power of the In-Between: Leading Through Life’s Transitions

Sometimes God brings times of transition to create transformation. ~Lynn Cowell

Transition is not a sign that something’s gone wrong.
It’s often a sign that something deeply right is trying to emerge.

Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, stepping into leadership, returning to yourself after raising children, grieving a loss, starting over, or simply outgrowing who you used to be — you are not lost.

You are in motion.
And motion is sacred.

Transitions Aren’t Detours

So many of us have been taught to treat transitions like detours. Inconveniences. Delays.
But in my experience — and maybe in yours too — transitions are not detours. They are invitations.
Invitations to pause.
To listen.
To lead our lives more deliberately.

There’s a quote I love:

Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried but actually you’ve been planted

So if you’re feeling buried right now — by uncertainty, or fear, or change — know this:
You’re not stuck.
You’re becoming.

Whether it’s career change, motherhood, empty nesting, loss, or reinvention — transitions are not delays. They’re sacred invitations to pause, realign, and step into something deeper.

Who You Are Becoming is Just as Important as What You’re Doing

Our default in transition is to rush into action.
Update the resume. Apply for roles. Rebrand the business. Hustle harder.
But what if the first step wasn’t “What should I do?”
What if it was: “Who am I becoming?”

Because clarity doesn’t come from more motion.
It comes from alignment. From asking:

  • What do I no longer want to carry?
  • What am I being called to step into?
  • What version of me is ready to emerge?

This is your opportunity to shape your next self, not just your next job title, or business pivot, or life chapter.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

One of the hardest things about transitions? They can feel so lonely.
Especially for women who are used to being the strong ones, the fixers, the go-to for everyone else.

But here’s what I want to say to you today:
You are not alone. And you’re not the only one feeling “in between.”

Let this season be one where you ask for help.
Where you find community.
Where you give yourself permission to rebuild — slowly, honestly, bravely.

Because you don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward.
You just have to decide you’re worth the becoming.

Wrapping it Up

So if you’re in transition today — good.
It means you’re alive.
It means something inside you is shifting. Growing. Healing.
Honor that.

You don’t need to go back to who you were.
You are being invited to rise into who you’re becoming.

And I promise — she is worth the wait.

Going through a transition and feeling confused? Let’s connect

Cheers!

Why Year-End Triggers Career Reflection

You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind. ~Hillary DePiano 

The end of the year naturally invokes a period of career reflection, which serves as a psychological milestone that compels professionals to pause and assess their journey. As the calendar approaches its final weeks, individuals are instinctively drawn to introspection, triggered by a combination of cultural traditions, personal goal-setting practices, and an innate human desire for growth and meaning. This time of reflection is fueled by the contrast between the year’s accomplishments and unfulfilled aspirations, creating the opportunity for honest self-evaluation (hint …that common ideal weight loss plan).

Also read: Conquering Transition Doubts

The approaching new year symbolizes renewal and potential, encouraging professionals to reflect on their career trajectory, measure progress against past objectives, and recalibrate their professional vision. Factors like annual performance reviews, financial assessments, industry shifts, and personal life changes converge during this period, making it an ideal time to critically reflect on career satisfaction, skill development, alignment with long-term goals, and potential opportunities for growth or transformation.

Consequently, here are a number of pointers that discusses this period of reflection along with recommendation. Not a self-starter , we can help.

Natural Evaluation Period

  • Annual performance reviews
  • Reflecting on past year’s achievements
  • Setting new personal goals
  • Psychological reset moment

Emotional Triggers

  • Holiday season brings perspective
  • Family gatherings prompt life discussions
  • Increased time for self-reflection
  • Motivation from new year anticipation

Professional Burnout

  • Accumulated workplace stress
  • Desire for meaningful change
  • Recognizing current job’s limitations
  • Seeking personal fulfillment

External Evaluation

  • Social conversations about resolutions
  • Seeing others make bold moves
  • Increased motivational content
  • Feeling inspired by potential

Strategic Approach

  • Budget reassessment
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Market trend observations
  • Personal development planning

Motivational Approach

  • Embrace fear as growth signal
  • Start with small, low-risk steps
  • Build confidence gradually
  • Seek professional guidance
  • Create solid transition plan

Recommended Actions

  • Self-assessment
  • Skill inventory
  • Informational interviews
  • Part-time exploration
  • Professional coaching
  • Continuous learning

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Adapt the motivational approach along with the recommended actions. But if you need the expertise of a coach who can help. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate for a friend experiencing these signs and help him/her kick off the new year with a difference.

From Fear to Freedom: Conquering Career Transition Doubts

Fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the process is its own reward. —Amelia Earhart

Fear is real. Sometimes it retards us. Most times it’s just in our mind yet causes us to feel stuck, unable to make the move that we desire. Common is the fear to leave a career, change jobs, or reach for that promotion as we question ourselves. So, we stay where we are and before long months turn into years, years into decades and we remain in the same place.

So what can you do about it? Here is a concise breakdown of career change fears and year-end motivation.

Why Year-end Triggers Career Reflection

Common Career Change Fears

1.Financial Uncertainty

  • Potential income reduction
  • Financial stability risks
  • Fear of economic instability
  • Concerns about supporting family

2.Identity Loss

  • Defined by current professional role
  • Fear of starting over
  • Loss of established professional status
  • Questioning self-worth

3. Skill Gap Anxiety

  • Feeling underqualified
  • Learning curve intimidation
  • Self-doubt about adaptability
  • Imposter syndrome

4.Comfort Zone Resistance

  • Familiar routine feels safe
  • Fear of unknown
  • Risk aversion
  • Psychological safety in current job

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Talk with a trusted friend or coach who can help. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate for a friend experiencing these signs and help him/her kick off the new year with a different start. Conquer those transition doubts.

Cheers!

Helpful Strategies For 30-Year-Olds Experiencing Life-Crisis …

By the age of twenty, you know you’re not going to be a rock star. By twenty-five, you know you’re not going to be a dentist or any kind of professional. And by thirty, darkness starts moving in- you wonder if you’re ever going to be fulfilled, let alone wealthy and successful. By thirty-five, you know, basically, what you’re going to be doing for the rest of your life, and you become resigned to your fate…

Doug Couplan

Anthony felt like Doug’s quote when he cried out for help. It seems like doomsday to him. We began chatting with the goal to put some things in place because all is not lost.

For those turning age 30 and feel alone as if they’re fighting to achieve their dreams, this is the stage where you should be self-reflecting, skill evaluating, engaging in healthy habits and networking. Here each point is explained.

  1. Self-Reflection:
    • Reflect on your achievements and experiences so far.
    • Identify personal and professional goals for the next decade.
  2. Skill Enhancement:
    • Assess your skillset and consider acquiring new skills.
    • Explore educational opportunities or certifications that align with your career goals.
  3. Healthy Habits:
    • Establish and prioritize healthy lifestyle habits.
    • Focus on physical and mental well-being to set a foundation for the future.
  4. Networking:
    • Build and strengthen professional networks.
    • Seek mentorship and guidance from experienced individuals in your field.

Are you age 30 and experiencing any of these signs? You may also have already turned 30 and have lots to share about your journey. Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

9 Investment Strategies For New Entrepreneurs On A Tight Budget

Don’t get distracted. Never tell yourself that you need to be the biggest brand in the whole world. Start by working on what you need at the present moment and then what you need to do tomorrow. So, set yourself manageable targets.

Jas Bagniewski

20% of new startups fail within the first year of business. This can be scary for first time entrepreneurs. So, the more prepared small businesses are, the more they can survive especially as it concerns making bold marketing steps which require some upfront investment. That said, here are some ideas to counteract those costs for a new business owner on a tight budget:

  1. Leverage free platforms – For example, start a free blog, post on LinkedIn, use free webinar services, publish a podcast using free hosting.

2. Barter services – Exchange things like hosting an event or providing content in return for exposure from partnerships.

3.Get sponsorships – Seek sponsorships from vendors/partners to help fund events, ads, giveaways. Offer sponsor visibility.

4. Use DIY options – Design your own simple website, create your own flyers, give free talks at local libraries versus paid venues.

5. Offer packages – Offer bundles and multi-session discounts to incentive larger purchases to increase revenue.

6.Be guest instead of host – Guest blog, speak at other events instead of funding your own. Reduces costs.

7. Tap into your network – Ask connections to share content, provide referrals, submit testimonials, write guest posts.

8. Focus locally first – Start by promoting heavily just within your local community to establish proof of concept.

9. Only invest where needed – Don’t overspend on unnecessary items. Prioritize money only where it will derive direct value.

Essentially, the goal is to maximize existing free resources and opportunities where you can exchange services. The aim is to become creative in order to access cost-effective resources until you gain proof of return on investment, then you can increase spending.

Which of the methods have you used? Can you add another method that has proven helpful? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Future Thinking …

Focus on the Future

If you want the present to be different from the past, study the past.

Baruch Spinoza

The question was asked “Do you spend more time thinking about the future or the past? Why?” Here I share.

To shape the future, it requires focus to navigate the journey ahead. Looking back on the past is important to assess how far you have come. To be more clear, it is important to keep score. Looking back on the past year(s) help you to analyze your successes as well as those areas requiring possible improvement. At times there may be the need to make a u-turn.

It’s like sitting an exam. You reflect on the theoretical steps applied combined with the practical to gain the learning. Then sit the exam and receive a pass or ‘fail’. You then analyze next steps. You may need to resit the exam or some persons may choose to do a total revamp to make that giant leap towards achieving their goal.

Here’s hoping you will understand the need to look back to get ahead.

Cheers!

5 Points To Consider When Transitioning Into A New Career

Mastering The Art Of Goal Setting In 10 Steps …

Want to succeed in the new year? Set goals! It’s a big deal because setting goals can help you get where you want to be. The 10 steps that follow make it super simple for you. Whether you’re a leader, professional or just someone who wants to grow, these steps will guide you through the strategies to set goals that really work. The aim is to help you stay motivated and focused on your path to success.

So, watch Aim High and Master the Art of Goal Setting and let’s get started on this journey to make your dreams come true!

Step 1: Clarify the Purpose

Define the Objective: What is the specific area or aspect of life where you want to set a goal? What is the purpose of this goal?

Step 2: SMART Goals

  • Specific: Make the goal specific, avoiding vague language. What exactly do you want to accomplish?
  • Measurable: Ensure the goal can be quantified in some way. How will you measure your progress and know when you’ve achieved it?
  • Achievable: Assess whether the goal is realistic and attainable. Is it within your reach, given your current resources and constraints?
  • Relevant: Does the goal align with your values, long-term objectives, and the bigger picture of your life. Is it meaningful?
  • Time-Bound: Set a clear timeframe or deadline for achieving the goal. When will you complete it?

Step 3: Break It Down

Break It Into Smaller Steps: Divide the larger goal into smaller, manageable tasks or milestones. What steps need to be taken to reach the goal?

Step 4: Prioritize

Prioritize Tasks: Determine the order of importance for each task. Which steps should be tackled first, and which can follow?

Step 5: Visualize Success

Create a Mental Image: Ask the individual to visualize themselves successfully achieving the goal. How will it feel? What will it look like?

Step 6: Identify Obstacles

Recognize Challenges: Reflect on potential obstacles, difficulties, or setbacks you may encounter on your journey to the goal. How can you prepare to overcome these challenges?

Step 7: Develop a Plan

Create an Action Plan: Outline the tasks, deadlines, and resources required to achieve the goal. What specific actions will you take?

Step 8: Monitor and Adjust

Regular Review: Emphasize the importance of monitoring progress regularly. How are you doing in relation to the goal? Are you on track?

Adjust and Adapt: Be flexible in adapting the plan as needed. If you encounter unexpected obstacles or need to change your approach, how will you do so?

Step 9: Accountability

Accountability Partners: Have an accountability partner, such as a coach, mentor, or friend, who can provide support and hold you responsible for your commitments.

Step 10: Celebrate Success

Acknowledge Achievements: When you reach your goal, celebrate the achievement. Do some self-reflection and recognition of your progress.

By following this step-by-step process, you can set and achieve goals that align with your values and aspirations.

Need an accountability partner to help you set your goals and stay on track? Let’s connect

Cheers!

10 Tips On How To Coach Employees on Career Development Without Micromanaging

Change a game.

Change a life.

A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.

John Wooden

She ran to the restroom and screamed. Sabrina had a job to do, and her manager knew she could do it well, but she kept questioning her over the past six months. As the year-end drew near, the project was near due. But the constant checking in was more of a time waster than productive. Sabrina became frustrated. How could she tell her manager to allow her to focus?

Coaching employees on career development without resorting to micromanagement requires a delicate balance of support, guidance, and autonomy. As a leadership coach, I recommend employing a coaching approach that fosters individual growth and self-driven progress is important. Here’s a brief summary of 10 tips on how to approach this:

  1. Establish Trusting Relationships: The foundation of effective coaching is trust. Build strong, open, and honest relationships with employees, creating a safe space for them to share their career aspirations, concerns, and challenges.
  2. Active Listening: Actively listen to employees, understand their goals, strengths, and areas for improvement. By attentively hearing their needs, supervisors can tailor coaching discussions to their unique career paths.
  3. Goal Setting: Together with employees, collaboratively set clear, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. This ensures that their career objectives are well-defined and realistic.
  4. Empower and Encourage: Instead of micromanaging, empower employees to take ownership of their career development. Encourage them to seek out opportunities, challenge themselves, and take initiative in their professional growth.
  5. Provide Resources: Offer guidance on available resources, such as training programs, workshops, or mentorship opportunities, that can aid employees in acquiring new skills and knowledge aligned with their career goals.
  6. Feedback and Reflection: Promote a culture of continuous feedback and reflection. By offering constructive feedback and encouraging employees to assess their progress, they become more self-aware and adaptable.
  7. Accountability: Employees are encouraged to hold themselves accountable for their career development. As a leadership coach, it is recommended that supervisors help employees establish milestones and regularly check in on their progress without micromanaging their day-to-day tasks.
  8. Supportive Coaching: Through regular coaching sessions, provide a supportive framework where employees can discuss challenges, seek guidance, and refine their strategies for career advancement.
  9. Celebrate Achievements: Recognizing and celebrating milestones and achievements is crucial for motivation. Acknowledge employees’ accomplishments, reinforcing their sense of progress and satisfaction.
  10. Adaptability: Recognize that career paths may evolve, be flexible and adapt coaching strategies to align with changing goals and circumstances.

By coaching employees in this manner, we can empower them to take control of their career development journey. It fosters a sense of autonomy, motivation, and engagement while avoiding the pitfalls of micromanagement. Ultimately, the goal is to help individuals thrive and achieve their career aspirations in a supportive and non-intrusive manner.

Beauty Pageant Contestants Share Expert Goal-Setting Tips

Be exposed to exclusive insights from accomplished beauty pageant contestants who have mastered the art of goal-setting and achieving remarkable success.

In this captivating video, you will be exposed to exclusive insights from accomplished beauty pageant contestants who have mastered the art of goal-setting and achieving remarkable success.

Listen in as Miss Universe Trinidad & Tobago Dalise Lockhart and Miss New England Petite, Kimberly Campbell share their personal journeys, strategies, and invaluable wisdom on setting and reaching your aspirations.

  • Discover the secrets to turning dreams into reality
  • Overcoming obstacles
  • Staying motivated on your path to success.

Whether you’re striving for success in pageantry, your career, or life in general, these beauty queens’ experiences and expertise will provide you with practical tips and inspiration to help you unlock your full potential.

Don’t miss out on this empowering conversation with some of the most accomplished individuals in the world of beauty pageants. Share with your friends who are on their journey to achieving greatness. Get ready to ignite your passion, set ambitious goals, and embark on a journey to success. Lean in and listen and let’s begin this exciting adventure together!

Cheers!

Elevate Your 2024: Join Our Exclusive Goal Setting Retreat!

Grab a Friend and Get ready to level up 2024 at the Goal Setting Retreat, where we’ll dive deep into setting & crushing your goals while enjoying fun.

Get ready to level up 2024 at the Goal Setting Retreat, where we’ll dive deep into setting & crushing your goals while enjoying fun.

2024 Goal Setting Retreat for Empowered Leadership

Buy One Bring a Friend 50 Percent off and join us for the 2024 Goal Setting Retreat for Empowered Leadership! This intimate small group in-person event will take place on Saturday, November 4, 2023, starting at 9:30 AM (EDT), at the lovely Hutchinson Island.

Are you a seasoned corporate Leader, professional, entrepreneur or desiring a change to take your career to the next level? This retreat is designed to empower and inspire you to set ambitious goals and achieve extraordinary results. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, this event is for you!

OBJECTIVES include reflection & assessment; defining your vision; goal planning & strategy; overcoming challenges and staying motivated; tracking progress and adjusting.

During this retreat, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experienced mentors, get clarity and valuable insights into effective goal setting strategies. Gain insights from shared personal experiences and get practical tips to help you unlock your full leadership potential.

Get ready for a day filled with interactive, engaging discussions, personal reflections, learning stories from the field, networking opportunities, and rejuvenating fun on Florida’s sun, sea, and sand. You’ll leave feeling motivated, energized, and equipped with the tools to create a clear roadmap for success.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to invest in your leadership journey. Reserve your spot today and get ready to set yourself up for a successful 2024!

PS: Does not include Hotel Accommodation

Professional Exit Career Plan

The decision to leave an executive or professional role is a significant one, and careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition. In my book Ditch It Switch It, I shared stories of individuals who simply got up and resigned without thinking much about their next steps. Indeed, life on the job can be frustrating. At times you just want to walk away and give up. But before you do, stop and think it through.

As a leadership transition coach, here’s a comprehensive exit plan to guide you through this important process.

1. Self-Assessment and Reflection: Take the time to reflect on your career goals, values, and aspirations. Clarify your reasons for leaving and envision the path you want to take moving forward.

2. Goal Setting: Define clear short-term and long-term goals for your post-executive journey. Whether it’s starting your own venture, consulting, or taking on a different role, having specific goals will provide direction.

3. Skill and Knowledge Gap Analysis: Identify any skills or knowledge areas that need enhancement to align with your new goals. Consider professional development opportunities, courses, or certifications that will strengthen your skillset.

4. Networking and Relationship Building: Leverage your professional network to explore potential opportunities. Reach out to mentors, colleagues, and industry contacts to discuss your plans and seek advice.

5. Building a Personal Brand: Craft a compelling personal brand that highlights your expertise and aligns with your new goals. Update your LinkedIn profile, resume, and online presence to reflect your transition.

6. Financial Planning: Assess your financial situation and create a budget that supports your transition period. Consider factors like severance packages, savings, and potential income sources.

7. Knowledge Transfer: Collaborate with your team and colleagues to ensure a smooth knowledge transfer. Document important processes, projects, and responsibilities to facilitate the transition for your successor.

8. Successor Support: Provide support and mentorship to your successor, if applicable. Offer guidance during the transition period to set them up for success in their new role.

9. Emotional Preparation: Acknowledge the emotional aspect of leaving a role you’ve invested in. Prepare yourself mentally for the change and focus on the positive opportunities that lie ahead.

10. Communication Strategy: Craft a thoughtful communication plan for announcing your departure to your team, colleagues, and stakeholders. Emphasize the positive reasons for your transition and express gratitude for the experience.

11. Negotiating Exit Terms: Work closely with HR and legal departments to negotiate your exit terms, including timelines, compensation, benefits, and non-compete agreements.

12. Finalizing Responsibilities: Ensure that you wrap up any pending projects, delegate tasks effectively, and communicate the status of ongoing initiatives to stakeholders.

13. Leveraging Resources: Utilize Leadership career coaching, industry associations, and networking events to gather insights and support during your transition.

14. Launching the Next Chapter: Execute your plan with confidence. Utilize your goals, skills, and network to propel your career in the direction you’ve envisioned.

Remember, an executive or professional exit is an opportunity for growth and reinvention. With strategic planning, emotional readiness, and a strong support network, you can make a seamless transition to the next phase of your career journey. If you need further guidance or support throughout this process, don’t hesitate to connect. As a Certified Master Coach specializing in Leadership Transition, I am happy to help.

You may also sign up to attend Goal-Setting Retreat to prepare your 2024 strategies.

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