Episode 70

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

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.

About the Podcast

Show artwork for Holding the Fort Abroad
Holding the Fort Abroad
The podcast for expats with travelling partners