What is the Difference Between a Change and a Transition?

Sometimes these two words are used interchangeably as if they mean the same thing. In actuality they have different meanings. Change occurs as a result of an event, a moment in time. It can be anything, the result of a divorce, or you are not happy with your current employment and seeking to change your career at midlife, or you just kissed your youngest child goodbye as they set out on their own life’s journey, leaving you as an empty-nester. Change will happen. It is becoming the norm. We need to develop ways to deal with it productively.

Transition is handling the personal side of change. The internal process we experience in response to a change. William Bridges, PhD, author of the book, “Transitions, Making Sense of Life Changes,” explains there are three (3) parts of a transition, an ending, a neutral zone, and a new beginning. They help us to recreate ourselves. Each person must take the journey through all three phases. It is in this process that a transformation materializes. Once completed you step into a new beginning with the change anchored in place. You have adapted and adjusted.

As I am writing this it sounds as if change and transition are simple to navigate. The reality is, it’s not a simple task. Sometimes it may feel as if you are in a crisis. It takes time and patience to journey through all three phases. Stop…Breath and Give Time…Time.

If you can relate click on the schedule a call button below and sign up for a free sample coaching session. Together let’s make your transition less distressing and disruptive and more productive.