It’s common to feel overwhelmed and uncertain when going through a life or work transition. Finding Clarity on where you are, where to focus your energy, and what emotions to expect can provide comfort. One way to do this is by creating a personal metaphor for your transition. Metaphors have the power to inspire inner Growth and connect us through a shared subconscious language.

Throughout history, certain metaphors have reappeared in literature, including transitioning from a caterpillar to a butterfly, awakening from the dream of reality, and moving from darkness to light. Other metaphors for change include the idea of a hallway, where we wait for new doors to open. It’s a space where we all find ourselves at some point, whether it’s because of a loved one’s death, a child leaving home, a new marriage, or unemployment.

Regardless of the metaphor you choose, making sense of your transition can help you navigate it more effectively and with greater ease. I have friends who use the door metaphor that says when one door closes another opens.

Doors can close in different ways. Some doors slam shut abruptly, such as losing a job, a loved one passing away, or experiencing a sudden illness. Other doors close slowly over time, like preparing for Retirement or watching the last child leave home. Regardless of how they close, the door represents a permanent shift in one’s life.

Sometimes, we are the ones who close the door ourselves and step boldly or hesitantly into the hallway. This may involve ending a relationship, moving to a new city, starting a new career, or leaving a job without a backup plan. A significant change and a definitive closure mark the hallway.

At first, this change may feel like a profound loss or a sudden upheaval in life. However, change is the only way to make life better, and sometimes it requires leaving behind what was merely good.

Hallways can appear daunting and intimidating. We may resist them and avoid them, spending more energy than it would take to move through them. But with time, we come to realize that hallways are spaces of transformation and growth, and they often lead to a better and more fulfilling life.

Life is unpredictable and we may find ourselves in difficult and unfamiliar situations, but it’s important to remember that we have the power to create our own experiences and navigate through those challenges. It’s easy to get stuck in the hallway of uncertainty, but it’s essential to embrace change and trust the process of inner transformation. With self-belief, guidance, and support, we can find the courage and strength to open the next door and discover new opportunities and insights. It’s crucial to turn inward and search for clarity and guidance within us, and no matter what believe in yourself. And remember: Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always.