Leadership Thought #445 – How We Transition…

As my kids begin another school year this morning, it’s always fascinating to watch how both the children and their parents deal with the transition. In some cases, either the kids/or the parents will be a bit anxious or nervous, unsure of what is to come. In other cases, there is almost giddy excitement about the new challenges. Old friends will greet each other joyfully, while the new children and parents will be feeling their way to find the best way to fit in. Some children will walk to school alone, while others will have both parents accompany them and walk all the way to their new classroom. Many of the teachers will carry themselves with an air of confidence and enthusiasm, while others will be more reticent and laid-back.

How We Transition

We never know what life will put in our path along the way. Occasionally, our transitions are predictable, such as moving on to the following year in school. At other times, a transition can occur without much warning, such as an unexpected layoff or a significant promotion at work. Our actions and those of those around us can significantly impact these situations. Some transitions, especially those that involve personal tragedy, will require some time for grieving and healing; however, even in these circumstances, there are a few universal lessons we can follow:

• Attitude, as they say, is everything. It’s not what happens to us that defines us in life, but how we react to it. All transitions involve some level of change; we can either embrace it or try to avoid it, but change is inevitable.
• It helps to have a support network around you and to be part of someone else’s support network, because transitioning alone is more difficult.  And, when you see someone who is alone, acknowledge their situation and do your best to offer some kind words of support.
• When dealing with others who are transitioning, realize that everyone doesn’t react to things in the same way. Meet your family members, friends, and colleagues where they are emotionally, not where you think they should be.
• When leading others through change, do your best to assume a confident, caring, and reassuring posture. In times of change, people need to feel their leaders are a guiding light amidst the unsettling backdrop of uncertainty.

I have a slight case of unease in my stomach this morning. Interestingly, as a parent, the feelings of worry we experience are often more pronounced for our children. Maybe it’s because we benefit from our life experience and know that things don’t always turn out as planned. I had both great and not-so-great teacher experiences as a child. Some years were outstanding socially, while others were more challenging from a friend and peer standpoint. When you transition, there is certainly an element of uncertainty. You are not entirely sure how it will end. What I wish for you is that, whatever change you are navigating, you don’t feel like you have to go it alone; seek guidance and support when needed. Do your best to maintain a positive perspective and recognize that, for all of us, there are ups and downs. Change presents us with the opportunity to develop personally, serve as a positive role model for others, and seize the chance of new opportunities in our lives; the way we navigate these transitions is crucial. Move forward and stay positive!

Related articles

• It’s that time again: What “Back to School” means for many families (horizonfamilysolutions.wordpress.com)
• 5 Ways to Easily Transition Back-To-School (childcareawareparentupdate.wordpress.com)
• The Helping Relationship: A Foundation for Families’ School Readiness (parentsasteachers.wordpress.com)
• Toddlers, Transitions and Tantrums (haltonparentsblog.ca)
• Back to school: Making the transition to a new school level (kdvr.com)
• New kid survival guide: How to help a child thrive in a new school (today.com)