Life’s transitions are as diverse as they are inevitable, challenging our identity and testing our character. Whether deliberate or unexpected, each transition brings a unique mix of upheaval and opportunity.
Recently, my mother and I attended a program through the Modern Elder Academy that taught the art and science of navigating these pivotal moments. There, among leaders spanning the midlife spectrum, we delved into the intricacies of managing change.
Key takeaways from the program included the importance of embracing the ‘messy middles’ of transitions and navigating uncertainty with grace. The program underscored the value of building strong support systems, not just for our own journey through change but also for the impact our transitions have on those around us and for future generations.
One fine day while making bread, I remembered a book someone gave me called, “The Real Work – On the Mystery Of Mastery” by Adam Gopnik. In it Gopnik investigates the science behind sourdough starter and his grandmother’s legacy. In between bites of gluten-frida sweet bread, it occurred to me that what Gopnik referred to as the “schmutz” – the blend of yeast and environmental factors (including those contributed by the baker’s hands), which lives on and flavors the bread, even after the baker is gone – mirror “us” during transitions. “How we are”, or our schmutz during transitions, leaves a lasting imprint on our lives and those we touch.
During transitions, how we handle vulnerability and whether we embrace a compassionate and creative mindset – can either enrich our life’s tapestry thereafter, or detract from it. It’s up to us to ensure that this schmutz fosters deeper connections and brings joy, shaping not only how we navigate future transitions but also how we support future generations.
Thank you to @Christine @Jeff @Valentin & @Sue …
-Tierney
Tierney Powers is an artist and the creative force behind programs like Zen and Modern Leadership, blending cognitive thought exercises with deep somatic affinity, to expand our personal range and freedom. A rewarding decade in the corporate world sparked curiosity about how to help others thrive in business. This launched her into a journey of steep transitions, determined to bring more joy and health into this space. Her mantra is, “Especially when it’s hard, why not enjoy the process?