I’ve been reading two new favorite books (The Power of Who and Say Yes to No) recently that echo the thoughts of another favorite Vital Friends (buy it new so you get the code). All three discuss the great value and power of friendships. I can think of no greater time to have positive friendships in your life than during times of career transition.

Transition is Hard
If you’ve ever gone through childbirth (as the one giving birth or the one assisting), you know that transition is the most difficult time of all. The pain is more intense; it comes more frequently, and lasts for longer periods of time. It’s also the most critical. The way we approach transition shapes not only the process, but the outcome as well.

Maybe you’re in a time of transition right now. You’ve been laid off, a casualty of your company’s response to the economy. Or maybe you’re about to be and you’re just waiting for the other shoe to fall. Maybe you’re facing a move to a new location because you’ve found a job in another area. Whatever the case, this time of transition can be painful.

If you’ve built your identity around your job, chances are you’re facing an identity crisis in the midst of your transition.

My Own Transition
Last week I emailed a few close friends to ask them to be praying for me as I further refine God’s call on my life, my business, my writing and speaking. For the last few months, I’ve been sensing the approach of transition and I can’t quite see what’s around the corner. Or if I stick with the childbirth analogy, I can’t see the head crowning.

I enjoy working with groups and speaking. I’m energized when I facilitate sessions on behavioral preferences, social media, or generational differences in the church. I like blogging about business, social media, faith and family. I’ve written a couple of children’s stories that have been particularly meaningful to kids in transition/crisis. I love sharing my faith journey with others. But it all seems sort of frenetic.

I’m in transition and frankly, it’s a bit scary. I’m reminded of my son, Morgan. A little more than 11 years ago, he was almost born on the sidewalk of Virginia Baptist Hospital. I’m not kidding. My transition was hard and fast. I didn’t have time for drugs and I was screaming.

I feel a little bit like that now.

Wise Words
This morning, I received an email from Kelli, one of the friends I emailed last week. She sent me the following words (I’ve slightly edited for space) from God, taken from the Bible yet personalized for me. And they blessed me. Maybe they will bless you as well.

“Cheryl, I created you for my pleasure (Ephesians 1:3-8), not because of what you could do for me or what you would accomplish (Romans 4:3) but simply because I love you (Isaiah 43:4).  Even before I made the world, I loved you and chose you (Ephesians 1:4)…Believe me and let me delight in you (Psalm 147:11). Make me your treasure (Isaiah 33:6). And know that this blessing is forever (2 Samuel 7:28, 29).”

Here’s What I Know
My friend’s email blessed me because it was straight from the heart of God. She didn’t try to share her own biased opinion. She’s wise enough to know that God’s word accomplishes what He intends.

My identity isn’t tied into my personal brand. Hmmm. Even as I write those words, there’s a sense of freedom. My identity is in Christ. Plain and simple. I don’t have to brand myself perfectly to God. He created me. He knows everything about me. And He loves me just the way I am. If you’re facing a career transition, remember that your identity (your worth) isn’t tied into your job, your employer or your paycheck.

There might be more to unpack. If so, I’ll save that for another post.

What About You
Are you in a time of transition? Where are you seeking counsel? Who is praying for you during this time? Are you trying to tie your personal brand or your career into your identity? And if none of those apply to you, how are you being the kind of friend to others who blesses in the midst of transition?