Finding hope is a crucial factor in moving forward during a work or life transition. Without hope, it is easy to stay stuck in place or to regress to undesirable behaviors.
Where to look for hope
Finding hope often means looking beyond yourself to your circle of trusted family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances.
• Who can be a guiding light for you in the transition you are facing?
• What qualifies this person to be a source of help and hope?
• What might s/he say or do to assist you?
• How might his/her actions lead to a better future or outcome for you?
It doesn’t matter whether you are an extrovert or an introvert, we all need other people in our lives to lend support and be beacons of hope and light in difficult times.
Where I found hope
I discovered this around the time I graduated from high school. As a high school senior, I didn’t know what I wanted to do to further my educational growth. My school counselor provided absolutely no encouragement to go to college so I felt lost. I decided to go into the military, a career few women chose at that time. Although I was all ready to enlist, my father intervened and clearly let me know that no daughter of his was going into the military. With this door closed, my dad encouraged me to enroll in a local community college.
During my first year, I took a one-year psychology class and lab from Dr. Pool. I was so inspired by how interesting and exciting he made the subject that I pursued more psychology classes and an educational journey in the field of psychology. My dad’s encouragement to go to college and Dr. Pool’s teaching were my guiding lights of hope.
Steps to finding hope
Finding hope when faced with a life or work transition can be easier with these steps.
• Find someone you trust (coach, family, friend, mentor) who will partner with you on your journey through your transition
• Create a realistic plan—with realistic steps—towards the outcome you want
• Take small steps to make sure you meet with success
• Focus on what you can do and let go of what you cannot do
• Stay calm and grounded in the face of obstacles by being ready to redirect
• Don’t give up—believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who also believe in you
Finding hope takes intentional effort and a realistic plan. I can help you with both.