Grief–sorrow, sadness, lament … perhaps even some anger or depression, maybe despair–are how we react to loss.  Every change, even good and desired change, entails some aspects of loss.  You get that long sought-after job and are now wondering if you’re really as capable and competent as you thought; plus you miss your old colleagues.  You marry your sweetheart, and start to realize that your level of flexibility and independence have … changed.  A baby arrives and nothing is the same.

Another word for change is transition.  “Change” simply means that things are different.  “Transition” is directional: a transition is an in-between time during which you move from your familiar “here” to a new and as yet undiscovered “there.”  Significant life transitions always require us to face and embrace some loss, along with the possibilities of the new.  And when we experience loss, we grieve.

Grief is often an indicator that you are in a major life transition.    If your grief is overwhelming, you may be helped by speaking with a therapist or clergy member.  And a coach can help you figure out what the transition is, what it’s about for you, what is being offered to you even in the face of a loss that perhaps can never be “fixed.”  Transitions call us to new learning and new growth, to a reorientation of our priorities and energies, and coaching is a resource to help you see what’s going on and plot your pathway forward.