How to Make Your Mark

Life is full of transitions. We all experience moments in life when we have to make transitional changes. Right from birth to our final resting, it’s all about transition. It’s the transition from the womb to the world, from the bassinet to the crib, from home to school, from high school to college, college to career and so on. The successful navigation of transitions is a tough thing. Transitions can either lead to an abyss or bliss. It all depends on how you handle it.

Earlier today I watched a show on ESPN in which former Broncos quarterback, John Elway, talked about the difficulty he had in making the decision to leave the NFL. He struggled with the decision and even after he made it, he went into the most trying time of his life. After listening to him, I now understand why Packers quarterback, Brett Favre, has had a hard time walking away from the game. It’s tough making that decision to move on.

Transitions are difficult. Understanding the three elements of trnsition is the key to moving on. These are closure, limbo and advancement. Closure signifies the end of one stage. It is the point at which we have to let go of the former. Many people have a hard time handling closures but it is important to understand that everything changes. That knowledge itself guarantees you two-thirds of the victory during transitions. The other third is found in understanding the other two elements. The second element is limbo. This is a trying time because you haven’t quite moved out of closure and are yet to experience the new thing. The most important skill here is that of letting go of the former. New attitudes have to be shaped. New concepts need to be grasped. If this is done well, then your progress to the third element of transition - advancement - is secure. Advancement is when you have completely put behind the old and have successfully navigated your way to a better life. At this stage, you can look back and say, “Wow! I’m glad I made that change!” May your transitions be fruitful!