Posted by
peripheral on Tuesday, March 09, 2010 6:57:12 AM
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!