Transitioning: essential to discipleship
“We all are progressively being transformed into His image” 2 Cor 3:18 AMP
Transition is a natural part of discipleship and life, and this is a tool to help you navigate moving through the stages, from the old to the new.
There are 3 main stages people move through in change, and everyone moves through them at different rates. Consider which stage you may be in, and use the tips to respond to change in a healthy way.
Stage 1
Letting go of what was
This can be an emotional time for some. Feelings of loss and sadness, anxiety, shock, denial, anger or blame may arise. Spend time thinking through the following:
- Admit change has occurred
- Acknowledge and experience your emotions
- Honour and grieve what was lost
- Remember how you’ve gotten through change before
- Remember God’s faithfulness
- Name what is positive, what could be gained
- Stay connected, and seek support if needed
Stage 2
Living in the neutral zone
Realise uncertainty is an important stage between an ending and a new beginning. Different feelings may include uncertainty, confusion, disorientation, disengagement, skepticism, or a sense of exploration as you reorient to new ways. Tips to navigate the neutral zone:
- Don’t expect to know everything just yet
- Question, wonder, seek direction & possibility
- Talk to positive others, and seek support
- Set short term, small goals to move ahead
- Focus on the things you can do, not the ones you cannot do
- Connect to your deep values, not the way that things are done
- Give thanks to God in all things