Navigating transitions

My life is changing.

This time around, it’s very much on purpose. 

Our little family sold our home in Ottawa last month.

We’re squatting at a family cottage (a couple hours from the city) while building our dream home in the forest. 

Commuting to and from Ottawa as we transition into our new normal.

We’re designing a lifestyle that feels so aligned with our values. 

Executing on a plan that’s been years in the making. 

But as I let go of the comfortable status quo, I find myself sorta kinda freaking out.

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I’m no stranger to the discomfort that accompanies periods of transition.

But familiarity with discomfort doesn’t equate to ease. 

Folks often refer to a caterpillar becoming a butterfly as a metaphor for change. 

There’s a lot of focus on the beauty of that butterfly. 

What’s seldom shared is that the caterpillar completely disintegrates into goo before it emerges in its magnificent new form. 

I’m definitely feeling like I’m in that gooey stage.

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I’ve come to recognize that gooey, vulnerable feeling as a normal part of the change process. 

I do my best to embrace it.

To anticipate that some emotional turbulence is likely around the corner the moment I step away from my status quo. 

And that I might need some extra support as I move through it. 

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I remind myself that, when a caterpillar goes through its metamorphosis, it doesn’t expect itself to simultaneously uphold its caterpillar lifestyle.

It’s not out in the world munching leaves and kicking ass.

It’s tucked away inside a supportive cocoon.

The concept of cocooning through times of transition and vulnerability is one I reflect on often.

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With that in mind, here’s what I’m doing to cultivate support through this gooey chapter. 

- Labelling and feeling into my emotions (using a Feeling Wheel and RAIN meditation regularly)

- Making extra space in my schedule, recognizing the emotional energy involved in navigating this transition

- Prioritizing daily practices that help me feel physically supported and nurtured, like Yoga Nidra

- Practicing gratitude to orient myself towards all the goodness that’s around me right now

- Connecting regularly with my therapist and coach

- Expressing my needs to those around me

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I hope this story and resources might support you during times of transition in your own life or work. 

I share it as a reminder that you can’t meditate or coach your way out of experiencing the full spectrum of human emotion. 

(Although inner work certainly does help to navigate those emotions more skillfully). 

I hope you find it supportive! 

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This article is an excerpt from a newsletter I shared with the Arborvida Community.

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