Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Change and Transition

From My Perspective - - -

Change and Transition is inevitable. The fact of our life, and the growth and development that accompanies it – physical growth, experiences, intellectual acumen (quickness, accuracy, and keenness of judgment or insight), financial understanding, spiritual commitment – all are part of who and what we are and/or become. There are no shortcuts and no easy formulas – it is a process – sometimes arduous and frightening.

Sarah Steele is part of a group that deals with professionals and changes they face. An article about her areas of expertise and assistance is entitled: Change and Transition - 10 Steps to Surviving Change Elegantly. Her vitae (brief account of one's life and work) is: “Sarah Steele is founder of Atlantic Coaching, works globally with high-achieving professionals who, although successful in their career, aren't as successful as they'd like in other areas of their life. Specializing in helping clients get crystal clear about exactly how they want their life to look, something many struggle with, our clients learn how to say ‘no’ graciously, freeing up precious time and space for the things they really want to say yes to. Ultimately, it is through more conscious choices and effective systems that our clients quickly enjoy greater control and experience more success without sacrificing professional achievements.”

Part of her secular approach is: “If I say the word ‘CHANGE’ how do you feel? Most people remain fearful, anxious and uncomfortable with change, despite it being a driving issue in our society. It appears that no matter how much experience we have it doesn't get any easier. Gaining a level of understanding that allows you to be productive, creative and flexible with your own life as well as helping others handle change is key to succeeding in today's ever-changing world. Follow these 10 steps to help you cope with the transitions in your life: 1) Recognize that things DO change. Nothing is forever. Neither the good, nor the bad. 2) Pinpoint the specific change you are going through…Stay focused on one aspect of the change by identifying what you are most afraid of losing as a result of this change and then understanding why that loss is uncomfortable… 3) Accept the loss factor. Admit to yourself that regardless of whether or not you experience this particular change as 'good' or 'bad', there will be a sense of loss. 4) Seek valid information. You will doubt the facts and struggle to believe anything you hear, see or feel about the change. Write down what information you need to know and who can provide you with that data… 5) Take action. Now that you have information, kick-start some forward momentum by taking both physical and mental action. 6) Recognize the Danger Zone. There comes a point where we choose to move on with the change and discover the opportunities it brings, or to give in to the fear of the unknown and remain fearful, anxious and in denial. 7) Make a decision. All the information you gathered may seem overwhelming. To avoid analysis paralysis set yourself a deadline for making a decision and do whatever it takes… 8) Identify the benefits. All change has some benefits. 9) Change? What Change? There will come a time when you stop looking at the 'change' as something different. 10) Identify a change partner. Finding a change partner who is committed to encouraging you and supporting you will make the whole experience less scary and probably speedier.”

When Spiritual Changes and Transitions occur, the decision process can be just as complex and intricate, namely, What Is God’s Will For Me At This Point and Time, and In This Place and Situation? It necessitates one returning to Foundational Principles for Life, such as, Proverbs 3:5-8 (NLT): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn your back on evil. Then you will gain renewed health and vitality.” One needs spiritual verities to shape his or her life. “Faith as a grain of mustard seed…” will be sufficient to allow one to move forward in spiritual growth, development and purpose. It’s not a mechanical process – it is a way of life for the person progressing in The Spiritual Journey. One’s Eternal Hope leads to The Ultimate Change: I Corinthians 15:50-52 “…flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God… we will all be changed - in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet…we will be changed…” Consider these things with me!

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