We are constantly adjusting to new circumstances both inside and outside of ourselves. Disaster, career, children, divorce, moving, new relationships and other changes shift the world around us, so we are squeezed to reshape our routines. In this process, we also manage the transition of our internal worldview: spiritual beliefs, sexuality, and physical bodies.
Regardless of whether transitions are inspired by crisis or creativity, they can provide opportunities for transformation and peace with the surprises life brings. One key to moving through transitions in peace is to value each season of the transition. Transitions are much like nature’s four seasons. If we resist any one season, it doesn’t move any more quickly. Each season serves its purpose in the cycle of life, as does each season of a transition.
Below are four qualities to embrace in each season of transition.
- Belonging – Spring
The beginning of a transition often feels vulnerable. As we receive new information, it takes time to orient to what the change might mean and how it will impact our support systems. Grounding into the places and relationships (or finding new ones) where we belong can be supportive of this season of growth. - Individuality – Summer
At the peak of a transition, we are seen by others in ways we haven’t before been seen. Transition has a way of exposing what makes us different from others. We are seen in our responses to situations and our creative processes. Embracing individuality gives us the freedom and mobility to move through the transition in a way that is true to us. - Expansion – Fall
When the climax of the transition is over, we are tasked to sort through the reality of the transformation. This season of transition often includes grieving what was lost and making sense of how new patterns take effect in our lives. As foundational pieces of our lives shift, it is easy to feel disoriented. Knowing that expansion of our selves is in process is helpful to stay engaged in the transition. - Worthiness – Winter
Following a transition, we need a period of integration. In the same way, our body uses sleep to process the thoughts and experiences of the day, we need rest after a transition to nourish our system. The choice to rest is one made in knowing the value of ourselves and our continual transformation. Embracing worthiness will prepare us for the next set of new information bringing in more opportunities for transformation and peace with the surprises life brings.
The Lovett Center Clinicians Veronica Welch and Philip Young wrote this piece because they are passionate about helping people during times of transition. Contact them confidentially to request an appointment.
Robert is deeply committed to serving others and is passionate about hope and despair in clinical treatment. With over 20 years in addiction and mental health, he has experience in private practice, clinical supervision, and program management, co-founding The Lovett Center and Ethos. He earned a Master’s degree from the University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work, which honored him as a 50 for 50 Alumni in 2019. His education includes fellowships at the Center for Psychoanalytic Studies and The Menninger Clinic, where he held leadership roles and received the Menninger Clinic Pillar Award for Integrity. The Houston Business Journal recognized him as a 40 Under 40 Class of 2018 Honoree.
