Fostering Emotional Health the Transition Coaching Way
by Sara Simons
In architecture, “transition space” is an in-between, connecting space between two other confined spaces. It is an essential element of any structure. One of the most important functions of transition space is sustainability of the building design. Whether it’s a long hallway or a magnificent entrance, these spaces play important functional roles. They invite us to linger and anticipate, before entering into a new, often grander, space. Temples and places of worship have historically been designed with this architectural concept of transition space in mind. One who enters a holy space, having gone through a transition space to get there, has been given the gift of preparation. There is an invitation to intentionally prepare one’s head and heart for the encounter with a Holy one.
It is safe to say transition space is an invitation to a grand pause, with an expanded capacity to enter into the next space with greater awareness and expectation. Not unlike architectural transition space, a season of major life-transition invites us to slow down, to pause, and to anticipate the next season. We may know transition as the slow, internal, physiological response to change. And change is the moment (or moments) that, while typically sudden and unwelcome, leads us into a period of transition…. Change may be the external factor that launches a transition. But transition is the often uncomfortable “in-between” season– not just a moment—a potentially long pause that requires a recalibration. Even when change is expected or positive, the reality that one is entering into a new normal requires attention in response, and can still feel jolting, with much to grieve. God uses transitions to shape life-direction; to further the discovery of our unique contribution in the expansion of His Kingdom.
In his book The Way of Transition, William Bridges states that “Transition is the process of letting go of the way things used to be and then take hold of the way they subsequently become. In between the letting go and the taking hold there is a chaotic but potentially creative ‘neutral zone.’” How then do we enter this neutral and often barren-feeling transition space? What an incredible and unique space to come alongside another, in their confusion, pain and grief!
I am a transition coach, and my desire when working with people is multi-fold: 1) I hope to be a creative catalyst unblocking the God-given creativity in each person I’m with… aiding them in places of stuckness, by providing tools and experiences that give hope– and help to lead them toward their ultimate Kingdom-contribution. I hope to help others exit confusion with lightness, centeredness and focus. 2) My desire is also to equip people with the resources and tools for their current and future transitions– validating that the intensity of transition is not only normal, but an intentional design of the Creator, pointing us back to Him in our pursuit of direction; trusting that everyone seeking guidance and clarity is ultimately seeking intimacy with the One who masterfully designed them. And like a “transition space” in architectural terms, I feel called as a transition coach to be alongside others as they anticipate the potential greatness of what is to come!
Sara Simons together with her husband Jeff, son Matai (9) & daughter Amalia (4) have resided in Malaga, Spain for the last seven years. Sara spent eight years working for CRM (Novo) as a cross-cultural transition coach and before that seven years working for Young Life ministries both stateside and in England. Sara holds a BA in Psychology, MA in Intercultural studies & a Coaching Certification through the ICF. She is founder of The Way Between.
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