If you’ve read The Hidden Magic in Life Transitions and Periods of Emptiness: Insights from Jung, Art, and Ancient Wisdom you’ll know that embracing the space in between is essential for self-discovery, bliss, and deepening our sense of purpose in life.
Honoring uncertainty, emptiness, and the space in between can often benefit from looking at the past to guide where we are in the present. Here are four actionable insights to help you navigate and honor transitional periods of life:
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Reflect on Your Past: Recall a time in the past when you were in the space in between. Write a letter to this past self. What would you say to comfort and guide them? For instance, would you tell them to enjoy the moment more and not worry - things work out? What connections can you see between how this past self handled uncertainty or the space in between and how present you is handling it?
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Recognize Your Achievements: Make a list of what you have in your life now that you once wished for. This isn’t just a gratitude list; it’s a recognition of your wishes fulfilled. It’s a reminder that you are cared for and capable. Acknowledging these achievements can provide reassurance and perspective during transitional periods.
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Slow Down: Do you ever look back on your life and think, “I wish I had enjoyed that moment more” or “I wish I had tried something new while I had the chance in that era”? Consider your life now—beyond responsibilities, achievements, and milestones. What might your future self wish you had done more of or tried right now? Slow down and make time for those experiences.
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Accept Your Feelings: Sometimes, the space in between feels uncomfortable, especially if you’ve been there a while and are ready to move on. This is normal. Take a deep breath and consider journaling about your feelings. The desire to escape where you are is often linked to a deeper desire to escape an underlying emotion. Explore that space. When you presence your feelings and accept their existence, you may find that very acceptance is the doorway to moving forward.
Honoring the space in between requires patience, openness, and self-compassion. You can navigate these transitional periods with grace and insight by reflecting on your past, recognizing your achievements, slowing down, and accepting your feelings. I invite you to embrace the uncertainty, for it is in these spaces that the true magic of life unfolds.
For more insights on navigating the space in between, you might enjoy:
Embracing Uncertainty for the Sensitive Soul