Life feels unsteady. You’re not alone.

In our current climate—marked by global uncertainty, political unrest, job losses, and personal struggles—it’s easy to feel like the ground beneath us is shifting. Many of us are looking for something solid to hold onto.

I feel it too.

As I navigate my own transition—empty-nesting, moving cities with my partner while facing challenges in entrepreneurship, and grappling with job loss—I find the world feels particularly frenetic, almost on fire. Within this chaos, I’ve been reflecting deeply on my sense of identity and purpose; my longing for calm and certainty of what the next chapter holds.

Finding Your Anchor Through Breath

In the midst of life's storms, I lean on the most powerful tool I have (and you have it too!)—the breath. It steadies me when everything feels turbulent. The “1-2-3 switch” practice I share in my book, Humanizing Leadership, continues to guide me. This simple technique helps me reconnect with what is true and clarify my next steps, even when they are difficult.

At times, I may not feel better after using this practice, but it consistently grounds me and helps me find clarity amid uncertainty. Recently, my son shared his experience of heartbreak and reminded me of something I often say: “Mum, I remember you saying that the right thing isn’t always the easy thing.”

Embracing Change with Intention

These unsettling transitions - empty-nesting, new city, ups and downs of entrepreneurship - prompts me to assess my current needs and aspirations. Questions swirl: What do I need to let go of? What new possibilities are emerging? In this moment of reflection, I remind myself that finding clarity doesn’t always happen overnight; it’s about engaging with the process, one breath at a time.

A Breath-Centered Reflection Practice

To support this journey, I invite you to try the “1-2-3 switch” technique I often utilize:

1. Take a deep breath in through your nose, slow and steady.

2. Hold for 1 count, 2 count, 3 count.

3. Exhale gently through your mouth, 1 count, 2 count, 3 count.

4. Hold for 1 count, 2 count, 3 count.

5. Repeat this a few times.

6. With your hand on your heart, ask yourself: What is it time to let go of? Pause, breathe, and tune into what arises. Ask yourself: what's the next right step?

This practice creates space to explore what feels true to you, even when it’s uncomfortable. It anchors you in the present moment, reminding you that every step—whether easy or hard—is part of your journey.

Navigating Uncertainty with Grace (or an intention of Grace :) )

As I move forward, I hold space for the reality that life will always bring transitions—some expected, some surprising. We need not have all the answers right now; instead, we can nurture our understanding that each experience contributes to our growth.

If you find yourself facing transitions of your own, I encourage you to reflect on this: What is calling for your attention right now? What do you need to let go of? And what is awaiting in the wings to emerge?

I’d love to hear about your transitions and how you’re finding your anchor in the storm.

Warmly and gratefully,

Louise