Navigating the In-Between Space: Embracing Growth in Life’s Transitions

Navigating the In-Between Space: Embracing Growth in Life’s Transitions

If you’ve read my last post on the “in-between space,” you know I’ve been exploring the small, often unnoticed decisions that have brought us to where we are now. The ‘in-between space’ is a transitional phase, which can be strange and uncomfortable; it’s a place where we pause to reflect on how far we’ve come, feeling grateful for the progress in our lives—yet we are still nowhere close to being who we want to become. It’s a time of growth, reflection, and, often, discomfort.

Feeling Misplaced: My Personal Experience when you’re In-Between

I can relate deeply to this feeling. In fact, I could be your poster girl. I have spent most of my life unsure about what to do next. This space often feels like being misplaced, caught somewhere between who I am now and who I want to become, uncertain of the next step yet knowing I need to keep moving forward but not knowing which way to turn.

I acknowledge that I’m no longer where I was. The hard work I’ve put in has brought me to a place where I can say I’m okay. I see possibilities for my future, I don’t feel “behind” in life, and I recognise that I’m moving in the right direction. But even with all this growth, it’s hard to put into words just how far I feel from the person I want to be and the opportunities I hope to one day access.

Chasing the Vision of our Future Selves

Matthew McConaughey expressed this idea beautifully during his acceptance speech for Dallas Buyers Club and covered this in his book Greenlights. He said that his hero is himself ten years from now -always someone he’s chasing but will never quite reach. That concept resonates with me. Like McConaughey, I am driven by the vision of my future self, always striving toward her, though I know it’s a journey without a finish line.

Patience, Self-Compassion, and the Journey Forward

Navigating this in-between phase is challenging, but I’ve realised the importance of patience and self-compassion. Every step, no matter how small, is a part of the journey. And perhaps, in embracing this space, we’re already closer to the people we’re meant to become.

One of the hardest parts of the process is to stand still, for a mere moment, let the outside noise drown out, and wait for the next right signal.

Tools to Navigate the In-Between Space
A few tools that might be able to help you navigate this phase in your life include:

• Setting S.M.A.R.T goals: These can help you move to your next destination and create momentum.
• Wheel of Life: Completing the exercise so you know where what area to work on first.
• Journaling: Track your progress to stay motivated, ensuring you’re moving somewhere.
• Practicing mindfulness: Remain grounded in the present moment, focusing on what you can control.

Embracing the Unpredictability of the Journey

Remember that the in-between space is a part of everyone’s journey at some point. Spend a moment considering your current state, acknowledging the unpredictability of the moment, because as time goes by, you will transition into a phase where everything aligns again.

You will look back on the experience with appreciation, even though certain aspects were difficult, as they contributed to your personal growth. These moments are here to help you shift away from the things that are no longer serving you as you move a step closer to the person you’re striving to become