A petit pause..

I’m in the midst of huge changes at the moment - professionally, personally, and parentally. Our family has decided to bid au revoir to our life in France and move back to India. That means a change of home, change of friends, change in routines, and most relevant for you - a shift in the way my practice as a coach will evolve.

While the details are still unfolding, it is all - as you can imagine - a LOT. So this month’s newsletter is a short checkin, a pause of sorts, while I navigate this transition.

My Balancing Act

With so many balls in the air, I’ve intentionally slowed down my work with mid-career professionals and emerging leaders. And rather than diving into the what, how and why, I’ve found myself reflecting on the fact that the same muscles of mental resilience and adaptability help us to face all kinds of change - whether it is moving countries or changing careers.

Our brains are wired for stability. The human brain has evolved to seek out safety in predictable routines. So even when the change is welcome or exciting, the uncertainty can still trigger the brain’s fight-or-flight response. The discomfort of adapting to change isn’t a flaw, it’s an inherently human response.

We often have to hold space for the sorrow and the anticipation at the same time. To balance the sadness of saying goodbye to places and people we love, with the excitement of jumping into new adventures. To move forward, while honouring what we’re leaving behind.

As I reflect on the psychology of change this month, I’ve started reading a thought-provoking book - Transitions: Making Sense of Life’s Changes by William Bridges. He talks of three stages of change that most people experience when going through a transition. And while it is written from the perspective of organisational change, I do find it relatable to my present situation as well.

(Have you read this one? I’d love to hear from you if anything struck a chord.)

I’ll be back next month with a full newsletter.. hopefully with firmer ground beneath my feet. In the meantime, if you’re in your own season of transition, here’s a question to reflect on:

“What do I want to take with me from this chapter? And what am I ready to leave behind?”

Until next time,

Nupur