Therapeutic Cleansing

Gracefully transitioning from one thing to the next is an art. Some of us get more practice at this than others. We may change jobs due to an inner desire to grow and develop our careers. In some cases, the opportunity to transition with grace is forced upon us due to a lay-off or unexpected termination. We no longer expect to be in the same job for 20 plus years.

Regardless of whether change is self-imposed or outwardly inflicted upon us, there is a choice to be made regarding how we will handle the transition. What is going on internally is not nearly as hidden and private as we might expect. Candidates who start networking or show up in interviews too soon after a transition may think they have their emotions in check. They may imagine their goals are crystal clear. In fact, even the most emotionally stunted recruiter on the planet, will feel your unfinished business seeping into the conversation.

What should you do to avoid “leaking” all over the place? Here is my advice. Clean up your act. Start with your garage. Make it so you could eat off the floor. Tackle your closets. Imagine impressing Martha Stewart with the way your fitted sheets are folded. Finally, paint something. There is always a room that could use a fresh coat of paint. In the process of making your outer environment fresh and tidy, your internal world will start to sparkle again too. Only then will you be ready to face the world and move on to whatever is next.

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