Often, a career transition is triggered by a dramatic ending. It could be a layoff, divorce, health crisis, or other life events that change everything. As you design your next chapter, you are confronted with the feelings and consequences of an epic ending.

I have found that three steps, taken consciously, can significantly assist you.

Step One: Grieve

Taking account of your losses is like cleaning a wound. It hurts a lot, but it prepares you to heal. Your approach to grief will be personal. No one can tell you exactly how to address your losses. You will determine if it’s journaling, therapy, meditation, long walks on the beach, or all of the above.

Step Two: Ground

Ask yourself, “How am I right now?” You are breathing, you have people who love you and people you love. You might be able to see the sunshine or feel the breeze. You are alive. Ask yourself again, “How am I now?” Moment by moment you regain your faith in yourself and your future.

Step Three: Go

Yep, there is a time for action. But, be aware you may cycle back to grief and may need to ground yourself along the way. Endings are unpredictable and take longer than you want them to. Meanwhile, you must move forward, both for yourself and for others who might love you or depend on you. Taking the Elevations career assessment at this juncture is brilliant. It helps you refocus on who you are and who you want to become.



While career coaching is not therapy, as a coach, I do important healing work. I can listen, offer support, and perhaps most importantly, observe and describe the improvements I witness. Being a career coach is both fulfilling and challenging. I’m so grateful to do this work.