What’s the difference between transition and change?
Change is an external event or situation that happens to us. Sometimes we’ve chosen the change, but other times it’s imposed upon us. Transition is the internal processthat unfolds before, during, and after the change event. Transition affects us on physical, emotional, and psychological levels as we adapt, adjust and are transformed.
One change model sees transition is a three stage process of letting go of the old and familiar; sitting in the neutral zone or an empty unknown space; then stepping in the new beginnings and developing our new world and sense of self.
Transition is made easier when we draw upon our strengths, use our values to guide us, and incorporate techniques from mindfulness, awareness and positive psychology to support the process. The whole process is supported by our sense of overall wellness.
Mindfulness & Awareness
Mindfulness involves paying attention to what is happening, with a wider field of awareness. With practice you are able to maintain or shift your focus to where you want it to be, rather than being at the whim of your unconscious thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It also involves having an open hearted attitude where you remain curious, open and patient.
With a positive attitude and directed attention your awareness expands to allow a wider range of possibilities. You learn more about yourself and begin to be aware of your choices to direct them more consciously. Your responses become more adaptable and less habitual.
While mindfulness is a skill than can be developed through meditation, it is also possible to learn to practice mindfulness throughout the day by paying attention, being compassionate and accepting of where you are. In many ways it’s about learning to self-regulate to help bring about desired changes.
Positive Psychology
Positive psychology is the science of human flourishing and thriving. The focus is on working with strength, growth mindset and vision rather than weakness, pain and deficits. It specifically explores the areas of authenticity, resilience, positive emotions and relationships and change.
Pain and suffering exist and are often inevitable when going through transitions, and are acknowledged with respect and compassion. But the ultimate focus is to move away from what causes and sustains languishing and move towards what energises, builds confidence and resilience.
A positive psychology coaching practitioner helps you build and maintain a positive focus on all the elements that bring a sense of thriving and flourishing into your life.
Wellness
Positive mental and emotional health don’t exist outside our physical body. My long career as a natural health practitioner has shown me over and over again how these are completely intertwined. The most sustainable and positive mental and emotional changes are supported when we also attend to our physical health. Our physical health also improves when we make positive shifts in our mental and emotional being.
We need lots of vitality and energy to make changes. Sometimes all that’s needed to ease into a transition is a little more focus on our physical health: sleep, exercise, nutrition, rest. As a wellness coach I am able to help identify possible problem areas and guide you to build healthier lifestyle practices.
Lynne Brown ・Wellness Coach ・ Positive Psychology Practitioner 