Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about transitions. Safe, positive and calm transitions, from space to space, conversation to conversation, role to role, meeting to meeting, expectation to expectation, and now through the easing of the COVID-19 restrictions. Our days and lives consist of a series of transitions so it’s important to transition well. Some years ago, a wise colleague introduced me to the concept of Thresholds, a place for entering and leaving, a way in, sometimes an invisible boundary. He explained to me that silent boundaries can speak to us and suggested that by noticing them, and making them visible to others, we can positively contribute to wellbeing and performance. Crossing these Thresholds is an opportunity to pause and think about mindset, energy, and the value we can bring to our interactions.
Self-confidence and self-belief help, and to be honest we may feel less confident, or even have significant apprehensions about this new normal context. So, the concept of Compos Sui, Master of Oneself, may be beneficial especially at this time. We know that we can be master of our behaviours, thoughts and actions, and by doing this we can be the best version of our self. We cannot be responsible for the actions, thoughts and behaviours of others, although we can positively influence them. Each interaction will benefit from leaving behind any unhelpful emotions, stereotypes or extraneous thoughts which are not relevant.
So, how do we transition well? What energy and strengths can we bring? Perhaps a few deep breaths, a kind act, a smile and a thank you. Being present, interested in others, asking what has gone well for them, how they are feeling, listening to the joys and the struggles. By resourcing self and others with positive emotion we can lift into new spaces with mindsets that are open, ready and respectful. This begins with awareness of the Thresholds we are approaching, the transitions we make, the emotions we feel, and acknowledging the contribution we can make to others. Accepting that all emotions are valid, although all behaviours are not. It’s okay to have and share emotions, name them and be self-compassionate. Tuning in to our inner self enables us to be our best self, and to contribute to the wellbeing of others in such a powerful and empowering way. It takes time and practice, less pivoting and more pausing, if only for a moment, before the next exciting opportunity for connection. I’m convinced it’s worth it, for us and everyone else around us.