Embracing Life's Transitions: A Look Inside My Personal Journey

Today, December 10, marks the 31st anniversary of my beloved mother's passing. I did not expect to sit down and write a blog today, but I felt the pull to do so because I realized that not only was it a sad day, but also the day that had a strong role in shaping who I am today.

I have written about this part before in prior content and in my journal HelloSelf - The Journal: Living Your Legacy, the funeral director who officiated over my mother's service had a huge impact on me – he was the reason I entertained the thought of becoming a funeral director for some time.

When my mother passed, I was working in corporate America in the public relations world. I was paid well and had what many would consider an amazing position, but I was very unhappy. My days were filled with ego-driven assignments that did not provide me with a sense of fulfillment but left me emotionally bankrupt. 

The pressures and responsibilities of life have a way of increasing denial. I knew I wanted to make a professional change, but I felt stuck and strangely losing my mother made me feel like I needed to be more grown up, responsible, and pragmatic so I continued on my career trajectory even with the knowledge that I was miserable. I ignored my depression and dissatisfaction, pushing it further down every week until I grew numb. Autopilot became my drug of choice as I boarded the train each workday, and navigated those busy NYC streets to find myself in an office adorned with personal effects I thought would make my existence cozy but rather made me feel even more empty.

A few years after my mother’s passing, I met a highly successful man who I talked myself into believing I loved. I saw him as the savior I was looking for – he was my ticket out of the corporate world. Marrying him would allow me the financial freedom to pursue what I wanted to do. But I was wrong, he was anything but encouraging and supportive but a controlling man who saw me as a project, even a trophy wife of sorts. I spent too much precious time hanging onto this toxic relationship and chasing this false dream of financial freedom. Finally, the relationship ended along with my sense of emancipation from the corporate world.

This marks the point when I sought guidance from both a therapist and a life coach, who played pivotal roles in illuminating the possibilities ahead and providing the strength needed to pursue my dream of becoming a funeral director.

Juggling a full-time role in a marketing department during the day, I enrolled in mortuary school, earned my degree, and ultimately broke free from the corporate confines of New York City. Undertaking an apprenticeship, I obtained my funeral director's license, and for five amazing years, I dedicated myself to serving the families I considered a privilege to assist.

However, a cruel blow struck me when I sustained an injury on the job, rendering me unable to continue my service to those families. I shifted back to content creation, purposefully avoiding the corporate landscape. Yet, something crucial was missing – my innate desire to aid others in their life struggles, drawing from my own experiences.

Recognizing this void, I decided to become a certified life coach. Now, my days are once again filled with meaning and purpose as I leverage my life experiences to assist others in navigating life's ups and downs.

The one constant that remains throughout my story is the word TRANSITION – a term I've not merely accepted but come to cherish. Without the involuntary transitions imposed upon me and the deliberate choices I made; I wouldn't stand where I do today. This realization fuels the core of my practice, primarily focused on guiding women through the art of embracing transition, navigating its intricate paths, and emerging resolute and more robust than ever.

I count myself fortunate to collaborate with clients who not only seek change but are also open to seeking guidance in bringing about that change. It is my passion to aid individuals in transitioning and meeting their true selves, helping them maneuver through the challenges and setbacks, emerging as the best version of themselves.

I want to share universal pieces of advice I offer all my clients no matter where they are in their transformative journey:

Embrace Self-Compassion: Regardless of the specific transition, I always advocate for cultivating self-compassion. Understand that transitions can be challenging, and it's okay not to have all the answers immediately. Treat yourself with kindness and patience as you navigate through the process.

Define Your Core Values: Take the time to identify and articulate your core values. Knowing what truly matters to you provides a compass for decision-making during periods of transition. It serves as a stable foundation, helping you stay true to yourself amidst change.

Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Embrace the mindset that challenges and setbacks are growth opportunities. Rather than viewing difficulties as roadblocks, consider them as steppingstones toward personal development. A growth mindset can empower you to approach transitions with resilience and a positive outlook.

Build a Support System: Transition periods can be isolating, but you don't have to navigate them alone. Establish a dedicated support system of friends, family, or mentors who can offer guidance, understanding, and encouragement. Sharing your experiences with others can provide valuable insights and emotional support.

Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst life's transitions, it's crucial to prioritize self-care. Take the time to nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This includes regular exercise, adequate rest, engaging in activities you love, and setting aside moments for reflection and relaxation.

Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that transitions take time, and progress may not always be linear. Set realistic expectations for yourself, acknowledging that change is a process. Celebrate small victories along the way and be patient with yourself during moments of challenge.

Foster Flexibility: Life is unpredictable, and transitions often come with unexpected twists. Cultivate flexibility in your approach, allowing yourself to adapt to new circumstances and adjust your plans as needed.

Remember, these pieces of advice are evergreen and can be applied to all life transitions. The beauty of coaching lies in tailoring these principles to each individual's unique journey and circumstances.

As we approach 2024, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a year filled with blessings, valuable lessons, and transformative experiences. Embrace your journey of self-discovery and let us together elevate the power within you. Remember, you are truly amazing!