Rush to the Finish Line or Take it Nice and Slow

When you take on the objective to transition to a new state, there’s a period of planning that determines your timeline. This may be detailed in writing or it may be informal in your head. Regardless, there is always the question “should I do it quickly to get there or should I proceed slowly with high quality?” Sometimes the answer is both.
You may set out on a path that seems right at the time, but then change your mind. You may even go back and forth throughout the transition. It’s a part of the journey of learning and growing. Typically, if you start out with a “get it done” mentality you are either trying to meet an expectation (ex: unrealistic deadline) or you are trying to escape the current state. This isn’t wrong, but a point of reflection. Ask yourself, why do I need to get there quickly? Whose expectation am I trying to meet – mine or someone else? What will I gain by pushing forward quickly? Is it the right thing to do for me? That last question is quite powerful.
Another reflection opportunity is that you might just be slowly jogging along and you want to “get it off your back.” There are times when you may stall, possibly out of boredom or fatigue. Eventually, it may weigh on you and you may reach a point when you decide “ok, enough is enough; I need to get this done now!” Again, it isn’t wrong; it’s what’s servicing you at that time. By kicking it up a notch, you may be putting momentum to something that needed a little nudge. With that nudge comes completion – a sense of accomplishment. How wonderful is it when you complete a large task on your list? Even completing a small one for that matter? As any good coach would remind you, don’t forget to celebrate the accomplishment!!! You did it!!
So, how do you keep your sanity through this process? It’s totally up to you. Doesn’t that sound nice? You have the remote control, so dial appropriately. Having someone to hold you accountable is a good start. A professional coach will assist in supporting you in your journey, with an open ear and without judgment. How willing are your family and friends in playing that same role in your life? Do they understand? Do they listen without providing their opinions and placing their perspective upon you?
That’s the fundamental difference between having a coach vs. using a loved one to aid you in your journey. Loved ones have the best intentions, but many times they are approaching it from a “learn from my mistakes” perspective. This would be defined as a mentor. Professional coaches are trained to be non-judgmental and to support you for your greater good. It’s not about someone giving you advice, as you can retrieve that anywhere (mentors, teachers, internet, books, magazines, etc.) It’s about you gaining support in your efforts, during the good days and the not so good days. In transitions, you’ll tend to have both. If you get stalled and you are contemplating “rush to the finish or take it nice and slow?” you’ll have a sounding board, a support system that will support you regardless of your decision. Your coach will tell you “it’s okay to have conflicting thoughts” and “it’s okay to change your mind.” Again, it’s part of the journey of learning, experimenting, and growing.
Reflect on the difference between these two responses from your same situation. The first comes from a loved one - “I told you so.” The second comes from your professional coach “How wonderful that you came to that conclusion. Now you have the opportunity to take that learning forward on your journey. How would you like to proceed?” Which perspective leaves you feeling empowered and supported?
Whether you “rush to the finish line” or take it “nice and slow” it’s totally up to you. You may experience both, maybe even many times over, in your quest to transition. Regardless, it’s perfectly natural.
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