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That's fantastic! And how would YOU define transition?

The transition I’m talking about occurs as we leave behind our mid-life stage and head toward late adulthood. Part of the process of transition is to let go of things that were important and replace them with those things that will be important to us going forward. Someone told me this wonderful metaphor that helps to explain what is happening. Think of yourself as standing on the bank of a river. In order to get to the other side, you have to jump into the river and swim. Except that it is a foggy day and you can’t see how far you have to swim and you certainly can’t see what’s on the other bank. That’s transition. On the bank. In the fog, heading you’re not sure where.

Last question! Are there ways to plan for and manage this transition?

Transition can be managed, but not by using the skills we’ve learned on the job – such as creating a strategic plan and timetable. Here are a few things to think about as you try to manage your process of transitioning.

1. Stay flexible and open. Don’t deny that you’re in transition.
2. You can’t make a timetable. It will happen in its own good time.
3. Opportunities will find you if you stay open to them.
5. There will be some anxiety and discomfort involved. Use it to grow rather than try to subdue it.
5. Don’t focus on regrets about things lost or left undone.
6. Realize that a “can do” attitude can also be a defense mechanism that may not be helpful.
7. Look for new people that will give you fresh ideas and energy.
8. Know that good strategies for your next stage will come if you stay in touch with who you are.

Above all, this is a time for exploration. I can’t stress that enough.

It’s a time to find our passion or interests that may have been buried by obligations and commitments. This transition is a great time to unearth these interests and discover what will satisfy our longing for finding meaning in our lives, whether it is through volunteering to help others, developing our creativity, building a new career or business, or joining the peace corps.

Basically it works best when we allow our transition to take us where we want to go. It is a wonderful time for adventure, discovery and enduring relationships.

Thank you so much for such great information AND congrats to you on your online versatility! Before we go, can you please let this group know WHERE they can get a copy of your book?

Thanks so much Janet, for the opportunity to talk to the members of your group.

The book is available in a number of places, but you can visit our website at www.smartwomendontretire.com, and click on "Buy The Book."

Have a great afternoon, everyone!

Well, I'm 52 yrs young. My 20-yr career in IT ended in 2001 with a layoff. Since then I've been working in low-paying, odd jobs that were sometimes fun and educational. But not anything I could make a living at. I got into volunteering in 2001, to feel productive and in hopes that maybe it'd turn into a real job. Seven years and several permanent and temp volunteer jobs later, I'm still hoping.

Thanks again, Gail. It's been a real pleasure. We have run out of time, but there is a question sitting for you on the main group page and I have a few private message questions for you that I'll forward along to you so you can have the time to get back to those group members. Best wishes for success with your book.

Janet!

Thanks Janet, and I'll be happy to answer those questions.

Darn! I didn't realize it was only a 30-minute session and while I was typing my reply, the clock ran out! Anyway.... thanks for the opportunity and info. I'll certainly go to the links Gail mentioned and see what I can find.

Cheers,
Deena