Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with two entrepreneurs. They’ve both been dealing with major career and life transition for some time now. One was let go due to downsizing, about a year ago. The other chose to leave the organization he worked for, after many years of service. They are both highly skillful, experienced and knowledgeable.

Along the way, they both decided to go to business for themselves. They chose to start businessses right along the lines of what they had always done. Gradually, the challenge of playing multiple roles within their young businesses, began to take a toll on them. They’ve been going through the motions of conducting business and serving their clients but something’s missing. What makes things worse, neither of them seems to enjoy marketing.

When I tried to introduce the topic of incorporating various marketing strategies, I sensed resistance and – dare I say – entitlement. Almost as if, just because they are good at what they do and they’ve done it for the longest time, they shouldn’t have to work hard at marketing.

The more I listened and observed, the more convinced I became that neither of them has actually completed their transition process. A big part of them is stuck in the past; holding them back from moving forward. How can one look at new possibilities and embark on something new, full speed ahead, when tormented by self-doubt?

There’s a lot more to being an entrepreneur than being good at what we do. It takes agility, flexibility and the willingness to take risks, learn new skills and be vulnerable. Every day, we have to be willing to start anew.

As if that’s not hard enough, when people struggle with major personal or professional transition, they’re asked to navigate conflicting emotions, practical challenges and social pressure.

Pulling oneself from the boot straps and pushing through the muck is hardly ever effective. Things need time to be resolved and we have to examine everything, pay attention to what’s happening and open up to new possibilities. Patience is our biggest ally at times like this. Accepting limitations and practicing humility don’t hurt either.

I know, from personal experience, that no matter how we feel, life doesn’t stop and wait for us to get whatever it is we have to get. There are people who depend on us, bills to be paid and meals to be prepared among other things.

Why not accept that a time of transition is necessary when you’re between stages? Never mind what other people tell you. It’s your life and your future.

• Do what you have to do to take care of your immediate needs.
• Give yourself the gift of time for reflection and exploration.
• When insights come, make a note of the ideas but don’t jump at them.
• Research, ask questions, explore!
• When you feel your energy and clarity levels increase, act!
• Understand that you don’t have to do it alone! Ask for help!
• Listen to what people, who’ve been there before you, are sharing with you.
• Entertain the possibility of learning new skills and most importantly . . .
• Be willing to change course if you’re not comfortable with your initial decision. It’s a sign of wisdom and self-respect not a sign of weakness.

© 2011 Yota Schneider, Open for Success. May be distributed if full attribution is given and copyright notice is included. Contact yota@openforsuccess.com

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