Why is the process of transition and change so challenging?
Having stepped into a new chapter of my professional life this year as a coach, I think about this question often. My clients are thinking about it too, and as they work to recalibrate and align their lives, we frequently discuss the mechanics of change and transition, and how to maintain both nerve and focus.
The Transition Continuum: Stages of Change Explained
I often write about change and the process of moving through transition, and there are many models that discuss this process. I think of it as a transition continuum.
Often changes happen quickly – from major organizational change such as an acquisition or new manager, to smaller personal changes such as breaking your leg or starting a new job. Once the event has occurred, we must act on the “processing” part, which is more about the psychological elements.
“Transition is the inner psychological process that people go through as they internalize and come to terms with the new situation that the change brings about. Empathetic leaders recognize that change can put people in crisis. The starting point for dealing with transition is not the outcome but the endings that people have in leaving the old situation behind.”
–William Bridges
William Bridges is an organizational consultant and is a respected thought leader in the field of change and transition. He identifies three stages of change: 1) Endings, 2) Neutral Zone, and 3) New Beginnings. The framework below is from his website:
Endings:
“Transition starts with an ending. This is paradoxical but true. This first phase of transition begins when people identify what they are losing and learn how to manage these losses. They determine what is over and being left behind, and what they will keep. These may include relationships, processes, team members, or locations.”
Neutral Zone:
“The second step of transition comes after letting go: the neutral zone. People go through an in-between time when the old is gone but the new isn’t fully operational. It is when the critical psychological realignments and repatternings take place. It is the very core of the transition process.
This is the time between the old reality and sense of identity and the new one. People are creating new processes and learning what their new roles will be. They are in flux and may feel confusion and distress. The neutral zone is the seedbed for new beginnings.”
Beginnings:
“Beginnings involve new understandings, values, and attitudes. They are marked by a release of energy in a new direction and are an expression of a fresh identity. Well-managed transitions allow people to establish new roles with an understanding of their purpose, the part they play, and how to contribute and participate most effectively. As a result, they feel reoriented and renewed.”
Flipping the Switch: When Transition Becomes Growth
As individuals, when we embark on and psychologically process a transition, we get to work. We read, talk, listen, explore, and gather experiences that move us along the transition continuum. Depending on our readiness, this can move quickly or take time.
In organizations, exceptional leaders pay close attention to this human side of transition. They recognize that people must grieve and let go of old routines, relationships, and processes in order to embrace the new. By guiding their teams through this process, they cultivate resilience and engagement.
Eventually, the “switch flips.” At this point, things come together and make sense. The seedbed of the neutral period begins to sprout, and we gain clarity on how to make use of new tools, ideas, and ways of working. We are now empowered and more confident in our personal and professional work.
Final Thoughts
Many of the learned behaviors we carry with us can limit our growth. But the right book, a mentor’s insight, or a breakthrough experience can dismantle those limiting beliefs. And when all of it converges, often unexpectedly, the switch flips. We begin to see opportunities in a new light—and that’s the essence of a successful transition.
Coaching Questions:
Think back to a time when the switch flipped for you. What was the catalyst? What psychological rework was needed?
What did you learn from the most challenging change you experienced?
What one item from this piece can you put to use in your life?
Today’s Song for the Playlist:
- Late in the Evening – Paul Simon (A great one for dancing it out!)
Resources:
- For more about Change and Transition: William Bridges: https://wmbridges.com/about/what-is-transition/
- Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash
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