How to navigate workplace transitions

Last week I shared a post about my redundancy and its impact. As a coach who has supported hundreds of clients through transitions and having experienced this recently, I’m sharing a model for understanding the process and some tips to help you navigate the transition. If you or someone that you know has lost their job or is undergoing a transition, please read and share widely.

As we move through life and career, most of us will encounter a number of transitions, some more challenging than others. These transitions can be both planned and unexpected.

Transitions include: Redundancy / job loss; Changing jobs; Career change; Promotion; Relocation; New technologies; Mergers and acquisitions; Cultural changes; Transitioning from an individual contributor role to a managerial position; Retirement, Starting a new business; Parental leave such as taking time off from work due to the birth or adoption of a child.

Transitions vs. Change

Change is an external event, such as a new job, a move to a new city, or a shift in personal circumstances. Transitions, on the other hand, are the internal processes that we go through as we come to terms with the new situation. It’s the emotional and psychological journey that we make in response to the change.

Understanding the psychological and emotional processes that accompany change can help you to manage these transitions more effectively.

There are several models for understanding transitions and in this article, I will focus on William and Susan Bridges‘ 3 stages of transitions, Ending What Currently Is, The Neutral Zone, and The New Beginning.

Ending What Currently Is:

This first stage involves letting go of the past, acknowledging what is ending, and accepting the reality of the change. This phase is emotional, as it involves saying goodbye to familiar routines, relationships, and ways of life. There are 5 sub stages in this stage: disengagement, disorientation, dismantling, dis-identification, and disenchantment which warrant some exploration.

1. Disengagement: mentally and emotionally disconnecting from the old situation. During this phase, you may feel a sense of withdrawal, detachment, numbness.

Tip: acknowledge these feelings. Engage in self-reflection, write them in a journal, share your feelings with others. Reconnect with life by finding new things to get involved in.

2. Disorientation: is the confusion and feeling of being lost that often accompanies the ending of familiar situations, the loss of structure and routine, and uncertainty about the future.

Tip: create a new routine or structure. Establish small consistent daily habits to provide a sense of stability. Reach out to mentors, counsellors, coaches for help and support.

3. Dismantling: breaking down the elements of the old situation – relationships, habits, environments. It involves grieving for what is lost and can evoke feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration.

Tip: Allow yourself to grieve. Recognise and accept these emotions rather than suppress them. Engage in activities that make you feel good about yourself to rebuild your confidence.

4. Dis-identification: letting go of the identity associated with the old situation. It involves redefining oneself, especially if the transition involves a change in roles or relationships.

Tip: Discover new hobbies or skills to redefine who you are. Engaging in activities that align with your values and interests can help in building a new sense of self. Seek support from friends, family, support groups for encouragement and validation.

5. Disenchantment: coming to terms with the aspects of the old situation that may not have been as ideal as they seemed. It’s a process of recognizing the flaws and disillusionments, leading to a sense of clarity.

Tip: Reflecting on the lessons learnt and focusing on personal growth can help you move forward with newfound wisdom and resilience.

I have found this first stage to be the most emotionally taxing. Be patient with yourself, talk to people you trust, and focus on activities that bring you joy. With time and support, you will navigate through these feelings and come out stronger on the other side.

The Neutral Zone

The neutral zone is a period of uncertainty, ambiguity and confusion. It’s the bridge between the old and the new. It can be a time of great creativity and innovation, as new ideas emerge from the chaos.

Tip: Use this time to reflect on your values, strengths, and aspirations. Re-evaluate your goals and priorities to align them with your evolving situation. Try new things, explore different perspectives, and be open to change. Talk to friends, family, coaches, to find clarity and ease the transition process.

The New Beginning:

In this stage, you begin to embrace the new reality. Energy returns, and a sense of purpose and direction re-emerge. New beginnings bring new opportunities.

Tip: Define your goals and create a plan to achieve them. This will give you a sense of direction and purpose. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who encourage your growth and development. Acknowledge and celebrate your small wins and achievements. Be open to adjusting your plans as you progress.

Transitions are transformative journeys that shape our lives and characters. By understanding the stages of transition and implementing these tips, you can navigate through change with grace and emerge stronger on the other side.

You can and will get through this. Embrace the journey of becoming your best self.

Vx