July 2010

From Ending to Beginning
By Ann Golden

A few years ago, Ann Golden started her own "new beginning" by joining her husband's firm as VP, Secretary and Treasurer.  Leaving a stable, structured environment, either voluntarily or not, means that you must let go of the known world. This is an ending. Now you must get to the beginning. Most career transitions go from the ending of one job to the beginning of another, or at least, the search for another. This can be a great opportunity to find your next career, not just another job.

Endings are important and you can take an active role, choosing not be a “victim.” A career transition coach can take you through being clear in your own mind about what is actually ending. Be honest and objective with yourself and your coach about what you stand to lose. You will need to actively let go of old assumptions and old ways. Then you can assess what you have to gain.

Next could come a time of ambiguity and disorientation. You may feel adrift and frustrated, but, thinking positively, this could be the best time and opportunity of your life! Use the freedom this time gives you to explore new things, experiment with new ideas, and learn new information. Rather than becoming consumed by uncertainty, accept ambiguity.  Learn to communicate openly, keeping channels open in every direction, and accept assistance and suggestions from your coach and other people. This is the time to explore every network at your disposal, including family, friends, church, social and civic organizations and volunteer opportunities.

Before you know it, a new horizon will emerge! Take action on leads, even if this is uncomfortable to you. It gets easier with practice. Set a daily schedule of work toward finding your next opportunity. Write your own mission statement, acting as though there are no barriers to achieving your goals. Use that personal network and actively involve people in your quest. This is how you get to the Beginning, perhaps of the best time of your life.

Here are some tips and strategies in getting from Ending to Beginning: (especially if it hasn’t happened yet.)

1. Pay attention to clues around you which might indicate that your cheese is moving. (Anticipate change.)

2. Glass half-empty or half-full? (Change can be a great opportunity.)

3. Relieve stress in your most effective manner, whether through exercise, self-talk, soothing music, hobbies, prayer or meditation.

4. Take care of your work obligations accurately and on time, if you are still working.

5. Burn no bridges. In fact, build some bridges.

6. Be receptive to change or offers of assistance.

7. Be open in sharing your situation.

8. Be a friend.

Check out Golden Career Strategies for help with your transition.