How to Navigate Change Like a Pro
Leaders train for what’s next
There’s a season almost no one talks about, because it’s awkward.
↳ After the resignation.
↳ After retirement.
↳ After a layoff.
↳ Current role is good, but you know there’s more.
BUT the hunger is still there. You’re not done yet.
This is what I call… a Bridge Season.
Here is how to navigate these tricky waters… and thrive instead of just survive.
You Don’t Build Your Life on a Bridge
I don’t know about you, but I have had my share of these in-between seasons in my life and especially in my 30+ year High Tech career. One constant in Tech is change… and very few stay with a single company for more than 5 years, layoffs are common, and org changes at this point feel like a yearly ritual.
Last weekend, my wife and I were on Whidbey Island (near Seattle) celebrating our 27th wedding anniversary. As I drove across Deception Pass Bridge, I thought about one of my executive clients who is navigating a bridge season.
They resigned from their previous role after pressure became detrimental to who they are meant to be. Now they’re in one of those bridge seasons, not sure what’s ahead.
Have you seen the Deception Pass Bridge? It connects the island to the mainland, high above Puget Sound. Beautiful. Exposed. Necessary.
And it hit me.
Some seasons aren’t destinations. They’re bridges.
You don’t build your life on a bridge.
But you can’t reach what’s next without crossing it.
The In-Between Builds Your Next
Bridge seasons feel uncertain.
You’re no longer who you were... but not yet who you’re becoming.
There can be real life pressure with money, family dynamics, and schedule.
That gap can mess with your head if you let it. It can make you feel behind, unanchored, or even desperate… tempting you to rush into the next thing just to stop feeling the weight of uncertainty.
Like the choppy waters while at sea… it is vitally important you have two tools during these times.
The Right Tool to Navigate
Psalm 107:29-30 (NKJV) “He calms the storm, so that its waves are still… So He guides them to their desired haven.”Master Navigators to Advise
Proverbs 15:22 (NIV) “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
These tools ensure the season is not wasted time and helps you evaluate what needs rebuilding, restoration, or a new addition.
Utilize these times and tools to train for the next season in four areas:
Physical, Spiritual, Emotional, and Financial
Create a daily discipline and schedule… and soon…
↳ The momentum starts forming.
↳ The strength begins returning.
↳ Your clarity begins sharpening.
This is what the bridge is vital… it transports you from where you were to where you are going!
Cross It With Intention
If you’re in an in-between season right now, don’t rush it.
Give yourself room to get steady again.
Then cross it with intention.
Surround yourself with advisors to help you navigate.
This is an interesting concept. I wonder if bridge seasons are difficult in part because we don’t always know when we’ve crossed onto or off of the bridge?
Currently in bridge season. A challenge, I know what is coming next, and this article hit the mark! I'll implement your words of advice here. Thanks, Chris!