Change on the horizon? Ask yourself this.
“Oh I know EXACTLY! Radiant Ambassador. I know that’s what’s next,” said my client, M., on a recent call.
Cue the chills despite the 95* heat.
Let’s rewind.
Readying for change
M. was trying to screw up the nerve to make a major change she'd been thinking about for months. A shape-of-life-will-be-different level change. She was understandably nervous about taking the final steps to set things in motion.
Behind that nervousness, though, I could hear a deep readiness.
“I want you to think back on the last ten years. What would you name the role (or archetype) you’ve been in?”
“Steady Supporter.”
“That Steady Supporter role has been so important for you and your family, and has helped get you to where you are today. Let’s take a moment and express gratitude for her.
“Now I want you to close your eyes and imagine what’s waiting for you on the other side of this change. What role or archetype comes to mind for that?”
“Oh I know EXACTLY! Radiant Ambassador. I know that’s what’s next.”
Steady Supporter vs. Radiant Ambassador.
Why we name it
It can be hard, scary, even aching to say goodbye to a version of ourselves -- even when we’re ready for what’s next, even when we’re in pain from staying in the same place.
Naming the part of ourselves we're ready to leave behind...
creates some useful separation;
offers clarity about the role we've been playing; and
gives us language for our gratitude and grief.
Likewise, feeling into what’s waiting in the wings...
helps build the bridge to get there;
stokes the fire of excitement; and
crystallizes why we’re going to take the steps and make the leap.
So, now what?
Once you know what you're stepping into, a slew of options opens up to you. Here's a sampling:
You might realize you're not ready yet. Maybe your nervous system needs time to catch up to your vision. That's ok! You'll get there.
A path may appear, and you may be ready to jump right in. Within 24 hours, M. had taken all the necessary steps (and there were a bunch -- including bureaucratic paperwork) to step into the Radiant Ambassador role.
You might realize you need more support. A coach (hi there!) might be helpful, or maybe you have other members of your support team to call in.
Sometimes change is exciting, sometimes it's grueling, sometimes it's a mix of both. As with anything, having tools to navigate it can help smooth the ride. If you're facing a big change, I would love to hear what you're leaving behind and what you're stepping into!
Scheduling made (MUCH!) easier
A quick housekeeping note: It’s now super easy to schedule a discovery call or coaching session with me. I recently set up Calendly so you can see my availability and add a session right to both our calendars. Don't see anything that works for you? Drop me a line -- I'm sure we can work something out.
Based on how much use it’s gotten this week alone, I should have taken this step months ago. Live and learn!
