Why Job Transitions Are So Challenging — and How We Can Navigate Them

Not long ago, I found myself facing an unexpected job transition. It was a shift I hadn’t planned for, and it has brought with it a complex mix of emotions—some I expected, others I didn’t. Moving out of a role I’d known well, even without a new position lined up, carries both excitement and apprehension. I realized that this transition was not just about finding a new job; it was an invitation to pause and reflect on where I’ve been, where I want to go, and what truly matters to me in my career.

Going through this experience has made me deeply appreciate the power of reflection and the value of support during a job transition. Many of us will face these changes, yet they’re rarely easy. Today’s professional landscape doesn’t offer the clear, structured paths it once did. Instead, we often have to define our own milestones, successes, and markers of progress, relying on our networks—our friends, mentors, and colleagues—to help us fill in the gaps. As I continue to navigate this phase, I’ve realized that one of the most meaningful ways we can move through job transitions is by reflecting on our journey and supporting one another.

The Role of Reflection in Times of Transition

One of the biggest surprises for me has been the range of emotions I’ve experienced in this time of liminality (a term I learned through Herminia Ibarra’s writings on the topic) —the “in-between” phase where my previous role no longer defines me, but my new path hasn’t fully taken shape. It’s a strange and sometimes disorienting feeling. Reflection has become an anchor during this time, helping me look back on my experiences and recognize what I’ve learned, what I value, and what I want to take forward. This period of introspection has reminded me of past achievements, clarified my strengths, and shed light on areas I want to grow in.

Through this process, I’ve come to see that self-reflection is not just about looking backward; it’s about making sense of the present and setting a thoughtful course for the future. In moments when I feel uncertain, reflection helps me stay grounded, keeping me focused on what I can control while embracing the unknowns. As I’ve shared these insights with others, I’ve found that reflection can be an incredibly empowering tool for anyone navigating a job transition.

Supporting Each Other Through the Shift

In a world where job transitions are increasingly common, I believe we have a real opportunity to make them less isolating and more empowering. Reflection has shown me how valuable it is to be supported by others and to support others in return. A congratulatory message, sharing a helpful resource, or introducing someone to a valuable contact can go a long way. When we support others through these changes, we’re not just helping them adjust; we’re strengthening our entire professional community.

If someone in your network is going through a transition, reach out. Let them know they’re not alone in the uncertainty. Share your own reflections, or simply listen if they need to talk. These connections are often more meaningful than we realize and can be the difference between someone feeling isolated and feeling supported. It’s a reminder that job transitions, while often personal, can also be collective journeys where we uplift one another.

Redefining Success During the “In-Between” Phase

As I’ve navigated my own transition, I’ve realized that the concept of “success” has shifted. Without a new role yet, it can feel tempting to measure success solely by the end result—finding that next job. But what if success in this phase could look different? Reflection has taught me to recognize success in the small wins and to see progress not just in securing a new role but in gaining clarity, strengthening my network, and enhancing my skills.

By celebrating each small step forward, I’m finding meaning in the journey itself. Redefining success has helped me see this transition as an opportunity for growth, not just a waiting period. As I reflect on what success looks like, I’m reminded of how powerful it can be to encourage others to see their own progress and redefine their own standards of achievement.

Strengthening Relationships and Building New Connections

One of the most rewarding parts of any job transition is connecting with others, even as you’re in an uncertain phase. Building relationships while not yet knowing what’s next can feel vulnerable, but I’ve found that being open about my experience makes these connections even stronger. When I talk to colleagues and mentors about this transition, I’m often met with empathy and understanding, sometimes even stories of their own times of uncertainty. These shared experiences help me feel more connected, reminding me that I’m not the only one who’s faced this kind of change.

When I see someone in my network going through a similar transition, I think back on what has helped me most. Sometimes, it’s a quick email or LinkedIn message. Other times, it’s offering to connect them with someone who might be a resource. Whatever form it takes, this kind of peer support reinforces the idea that, even in uncertain times, we’re all part of a broader community.

Embracing a Learning and Reflective Mindset

As I continue to explore my next steps, I’m working to adopt what researchers like Herminia Ibarra call a “learning plot” mindset. This mindset encourages us to view transitions as adaptive, flexible journeys rather than fixed paths with a set destination. Reflection has become a vital part of this process, helping me embrace each experience as a valuable lesson, no matter how small. Every conversation, every networking opportunity, and every insight from my past roles helps shape the next step, making reflection an active part of my journey.

When I share this approach with others going through transitions, I encourage them to use reflection as a tool for both clarity and resilience. It helps us stay grounded in our values, embrace uncertainty, and see each part of the journey as a stepping stone toward something meaningful. Reflection has taught me that growth is often iterative, especially during times of transition. And while the next chapter may be unwritten, every small step forward brings me closer to defining it.

Moving Forward, Together

Job transitions aren’t just about moving from one role to another. They’re opportunities to learn, deepen our expertise, and discover new strengths within ourselves. By actively supporting each other during these times and making space for reflection, we create a professional community that values empathy, resilience, and connection. A simple message, a shared resource, or an introduction can be a powerful reminder that someone is there for you, cheering you on.

As I look ahead, I’m committed to making this support a core part of my professional life. We all go through transitions, and we all benefit from a network that believes in us. When we navigate these changes together—with reflection and intention—they become less daunting and more meaningful, transforming from isolated challenges into shared experiences that uplift us all.