I have been promoted to the role of a VP. I am in the process of handing over my existing responsibilities. I am also learning the ropes of the new role in parallel. I am doing 12-16 hour days as I have to take care of 2 different roles. Some days are pretty overwhelming. What can I do differently to handle the transition smoothly? ~ Director, OperationsTransitions are periods of change. They happen mostly when we make a radical change which involves risk. The period of transition may not have closure on a daily/ weekly basis. This creates discomfort for many as it seems that there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
What can ease the process of transition is to be aware of the desires:
to control the transition
to crash the schedule
to find closure before time &
resistance to the journey
How can you Navigate Role Transition With Confidence?
Process what is ending
During the transition, something is in the process of "ending."
This is uncomfortable as it brings with it a loss of familiarity, trust, identity, etc.
Taking the time to reflect on the losses is critical to prevent carrying baggage in your mental space.
Saying Good bye properly is important for letting go.
Take your notebook, write what you are going to lose. Consciously look at them. Grieve them if you need to. Let them go. This may take some time. That's ok.
2. Enjoy the journey of getting to a new place
The desire of certainty forces us to wait for the destination, while we are in the journey.
Our sense of taking control wants perfection right from day one.
Both this inhibits our ability to enjoy the transition period.
While it is productive to get as much done, do document what you don't know and take a moment to see how good the journey is.
The landscape will change soon and you will reach your destination.
3. Welcome the new beginning and pay attention to its unfolding
You navigated the ending and completed your journey.
Take a moment to cherish how far you have come. Celebrate.
Look at your new role with the beginner's mind. Listen with respect to others who have already started in your new context. Look at your role with a new pair of eyes and note what could be different.
Take time to prepare:
In a year's time, what could be a dream accomplishment?
What is critical that will contribute into that?
Whose support do you need to make it happen?
What unique value can you bring to the table?
What kind of leadership does your new team need?
What is already working well?
What would you like to change?
When you hand over the role to someone else, what would they say about you?
Transitions can be easier if we understand them for what they are.
They are periods of huge learning. They are not periods of accomplishment.
Measure yourself wisely.