Restore, Reflect, Experiment: A Guide to Managing Major Life Changes

"You ask yourself this question: What am I holding to that it wants to be released in my life right now?"

Welcome to WomenShare, a celebration of women in financial services. In today’s episode, hosts Joanna Ehresman and Leah Alter sit down with Shannon Schottler, a professional coach specializing in life and career transitions. Shannon leads us on a journey through the complexities of embracing new identities and managing life’s big transitions with confidence.

Shannon Schottler: A "Zingy Lemon Sorbet" to Embrace Change

Shannon Schottler uses the metaphor of “zingy lemon sorbet” to describe the exhilarating and experimental phases of transitions such as promotions, impending births, or marriages. These moments are brimming with excitement and a dash of trepidation as individuals dive into new roles.

Fighting Imposter Syndrome

Both Joanna and Shannon discuss the common phenomenon of imposter syndrome, particularly prevalent during significant life changes. Feelings of self-doubt often come to the forefront, yet Shannon offers insights on building confidence through intentional experimentation, self-compassion, and active support.

Support Strategies During Transition

Shannon's advice centers around restoring oneself through self-care, reflecting on experiences, and embracing experimentation. She likens this restorative process to maintaining a full tank of gas, essential for navigating transitions smoothly and effectively.

Experimentation Mindset: Taking Action

Transitioning from planning to action is crucial. Shannon advocates for hitting the ground running with small, manageable trials rather than succumbing to overthinking. This approach stands as a practical means to combat hesitation and uncertainty in new ventures.

Imperfect Beginnings and Supportive Environments

Embracing the messiness of new endeavors is necessary. Shannon shares a heartfelt story of her daughter learning to bake, underscoring that growth flourishes in environments that accept imperfections. Surrounding oneself with a supportive community is vital for healthy transitions.

Integrating Personal Identity: Shannon as the Farmer

A highlight of Shannon’s journey includes her transition to becoming a farmer, an identity rooted in her upbringing on a Wisconsin farm. This new role, filled with hands-on skills such as building fences and driving a skid steer, not only fulfills her personally but enriches her coaching practices, bringing grounded, relatable metaphors to her clients.

Financial Transitions: Common Pitfalls and Strategies

On the financial front, Shannon illuminates three major pitfalls in transitions: succumbing to generic financial fears, viewing transitions as permanent, and engaging in cyclical worrying. She advocates for fact-based, present-focused planning and strategies to manage fixed versus variable expenses effectively during these periods.

Creating a Culture of Contributions and Self-Care

Shannon's coaching philosophy transcends mere financial success. She encourages building a culture where contributions are celebrated over accolades or wealth accumulation. Importantly, she reiterates the necessity of self-care, equating it to having the energy needed to embrace life changes fully.

Key Takeaways

1. Excitement of Transition ("Zingy Lemon Sorbet"): Embracing the thrill and experimentation during life transitions.
2. Combatting Imposter Syndrome: Techniques to overcome self-doubt through trial and support.
3. Practical Experimentation: Importance of acting on small, manageable trials to navigate new paths.
4. Restoration Through Self-Care: Necessity of maintaining mental and physical...