#70 The Spaces In Between: Family Life in Constant Transition

Holding the Fort Abroad

Synopsis:

"It seems to me that globally mobile people and people who live these geographical separations, we tend to have these ongoing non stop transitions and not only one at a time, we tend to have multiple transitions going on at the same time."

Whether it’s a big move, a new role, the bittersweet send-off when a loved one leaves, or adjustments that come with globally mobile living, transitions are everywhere. Using William Bridges’ renowned model, this episode explores the three phases of transition-endings, the neutral zone, and new beginnings - and discusses how these play out in our lives as expatriates or families separated by work commitments. I also reflect on my own ongoing transitions, share insights from expert guests from previous episodes, and talk about crucial skills that can make every transition just a little bit easier.

1. What transitions are you in at the moment?
2. Biggest takeaways from ‘Transitions’ from William Bridges
3. Ongoing transitions and multiple transitions at a time including strategies to navigate them
4. How transitions show up in Frequent Work Travel and longer geographical separations

Resources mentioned in this episode :

• Transitions; Making Sense of Life’s Changes by William Bridges
• Holding the Fort Abroad Episode #17 with Arlette Chatlain (Family rituals during split-location)
• Episode #28 with Kirsten Pontius (Maintaining your minimum amid chaos)
• Episode #23 with Kate Gondouin (Coping with frequent transitions in corporate and personal life)

Action Steps:

• Make a list of all the transitions you’re in (or have recently experienced) - even the small ones!
• Identify your “minimum” self-care routine to preserve your wellbeing during busy times.
• Collaborate with your partner/family to create your own set of reconnecting questions and rituals.

Wherever you are in the world, know that you’re not alone.