Winnie the Pooh - Mastering the Art of Transition

“The fact is,” said Rabbit, “we’ve missed our way somehow.” They were having a rest in a small sand-pit on the top of the Forest. Pooh was getting rather tired of that sand-pit, and suspected it of following them about because, whichever direction they started in, they always ended up at it, and each time, as it came through the mist at them, Rabbit said triumphantly, “Now I know where we are!” (The Tao of Pooh, Benjamin Hoff)

How many times are you faced with “oh no, not this again thoughts” when going through a transition. You are standing on the in-between ground, but the next landing doesn’t seem to be revealing itself.

We can pull pearls of wisdom from Pooh and some of his mates, Eeyore, Piglet and Rabbit. To make their lessons more relevant, think of each one of these characters as “a part of your personality.” And see if these character parts are helpful to you during this transition, or a hindrance. We can all have our Eeyore (fretting) days, or stuck on an idea like Piglet (hesitation, procrastination) and married to an Owl (over-planning.) The first step is to observe when various aspects of your personality shine versus over-shadow. See if catching these “characters” in action helps you to identify otherwise hidden blind-spots, such as exhibiting strong feelings in a particular situation.

In Winnie-the –Pooh’s world, he exemplified “enjoying the process, being present.” Yes, probably simpler if you are a stuffed bear in a children’s story. But nonetheless – a running theme is Pooh’s ability to meander, and then meander some more. He allowed himself to be. Not to stay overly focused or worried. And in providing himself this space, he was then able to explore, and solve the mystery of the day. Akin to finding your most creative ideas when you are in the shower, or brainstorm while you are driving a car. When we give our intellectual brains and intuitive brains a chance to work (without micro-managing) new ideas can emerge.

Here are a few workable strategies. In your journal or day book (many well-known business coaches have used day books) write on the top of each page the name of the “character or personality part” that you want to learn from. And, during the day when you see it arise – write down the situation, what occurred, what you said and most importantly, how you reacted.

Also, during stressful times (which cover most transitions) it is important, acceptable and necessary to have someone and/or someplace to share your true feelings (warts and all.) The act of releasing and being heard is healing. Being told, just let it go, when the raw feelings are right there, is not always helpful. Be respectful of your own needs.

Then, letting it go. When I reflect on Pooh’s opening statement, I am reminded that circumstances are not exactly the same. There is usually some big or small distinction. It’s not unusual for something (particular theme) to come up again and again. Look for the differences. Isn’t there wisdom gained from prior experiences, life education, a more diverse spectrum of thoughts and feelings. Do you acknowledge yourself for the differences, or just throw it all together as “same old, same old.” Are you a different person from the last time this transition or obstacle presented itself?

And lastly, I’ve read that this month of Sagittarius is the month of miracles! They say new opportunities will present themselves as we shift. Sometimes that seems easier said than done.

I have found that a small pep talk with oneself, an affirmation, is good morning fuel. Do you have a saying that helps keep you centered? Something that in a few words represents positive meaning for you. Here is one I like, “empowered by more than I can see.” Or use Winnie-the-Pooh’s; upon waking up in the morning, “what’s for breakfast?”