For me, September always conjures up memories of going ‘back to school’. Starting a new term with a shiny new pencil case and shoes to boot. A mixture of excitement and apprehension rise in equal measure.
Exciting because of the chance to start with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. Apprehension because of the uncertainty that lays ahead. For many this will still be the case as we prepare for September 2020 like no other before.
You may be preparing children to return to or start at school - excited for the normality of routine, but nervous for their experience. You may be returning to the office after a period of furlough or working at home - excited to start your commute or anxious over what your role will look like. Or perhaps, like so many others, you find yourself looking for your next opportunity or re-evaluating your options going forward.
In so many ways we’re all transitioning - into new mindsets, new and adapted roles, back to a place of work, new processes, routines and procedures, or leaving the security of work entirely.
Whether you're making a physical change or not, something has undoubtedly changed for all of us - our perspective. We have an opportunity to look at things with fresh eyes. You may find yourself in a new situation, different circumstances, reconsidering your existing set up or thinking about carving out something new.
Like the change of the season from summer to autumn, we are managing a time of transition. Whether intentional or unexpected, this requires understanding and a level of kindness towards ourselves to enable us to adapt without additional tension and pressure.
So as we welcome autumn and the changes that nature will bring, what are the ways that you can embrace the transitions that you find yourself going through and ensure patience to allow yourself space to do so?
Gemma Brown is an associate certified coach with the International Coach Federation, working with people to navigate successfully through transitions - be it career, relationships or life in general. Her belief is that when we confidently bring our whole selves to all areas of life, anything is possible. Transitions exist in both our personal and business life, and so often, the two fiercely overlap. Coaching with Gemma focuses on you as a whole, enabling you to identify your strengths, build confidence and to live a life with increased purpose and direction. Gemma is based in Cambridgeshire and carries out face to face coaching in the area as well as 1-2-1 coaching via Skype and Zoom. For more about Gemma, visit her 'About' page or contact her directly.