What is transformation? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, transformation is “an act, process, or instance of transforming” and transforming is “changing in character or condition.”
Transformation, then, is the natural next step when change in your personal life or work situation triggers a time of transition. Robert Gass, executive coach, leadership consultant, and founder of the Rockwood Leadership Institute, refers to transformation as heart and mind acting together in the face of change. He quoted Gandhi to sum up this idea: “We must be the change we want to see happen in the world.”
To put transformation into practice, you must focus on your present situation. You can’t bury your head in the sand and wish away where you are now. You need to create a vision for your future while you let go of past beliefs that may be hindering your forward momentum. It may seem hard, but you can be both present in your daily life and planning your future.
There are a number of changes that may lead to transformation. These include
• Death of someone you love
• Divorce, whether planned or unexpected
• Leaving family and friends to move to a new city
• Losing your job
• Retiring after years of devoted service
Although it may appear impossible, you can courageously move through these transitions and create a transformation for yourself.
For example, if you are going through a divorce, you will discover hidden strengths as you face new situations. You will learn more about yourself and what you value and what you want to change. You will be able to transfer these strengths and self-knowledge to other aspects of your life, transforming a difficult time into a successful outcome.
If you are preparing for retirement, you may be anxious and fearful about leaving work and its benefits or about facing empty days without the purpose of your work. By planning your retirement lifestyle and looking at skills you carry into retirement, you can design a transformation that includes feelings of confidence, success, and meaning.
Changes in your life and your work may be beyond your control. However, you can control whether or not you allow yourself to transition through the change process in a way that leads to a true transformational experience. You just need to trust your ability to change yourself or situation, one step at a time.