People often question how I cope with living in two different places, with so much to-ing and fro-ing. “Do you find it stressful?” they ask.
I don’t find it stressful, no. But I find the “leaving” and the “returning” hard to navigate. I feel discombobulated and untethered and, well, a bit sad. And these feelings begin to heighten in the days leading up to the “leaving” as we live amongst half-packed boxes and suitcases and the deep-knowing that we won’t be here again for many months.
I was talking with a dear client yesterday about liminality. He is someone who quite intentionally chooses to live in a way that embraces constant flux. He finds solace and excitement in the continuous transition between “what was” and “what will be.” He finds so much freedom in this space.
I’m not sure I’ve quite embraced it all yet in the way he has. But I’m getting there.
In my work as a coach, I see how these liminal periods can be both challenging and transformative. Clients often come to me during times of transition, seeking guidance and support as they move from one stage of life to another. Whether it’s a career change, the end of a relationship, or a significant life event like the death of a parent, these moments of change can evoke so much uncertainty and vulnerability. It’s precisely in these moments of uncertainty though, that I witness so much profound growth occur in my clients’ lives. Liminal space strips away all that we know; the familiar routines and comforts that we cling to, forcing us to confront our fears and protective patterns. This confrontation, while uncomfortable, can lead to so much self-awareness and growth. Stepping into the unknown hands us the gift of opportunity to redefine ourselves and our lives.
For me, while the process of packing up and moving is pretty physically and emotionally tiring, it keeps on teaching me to let go of attachments and embrace the in-between. It challenges me to find home within myself, regardless of where I am.
I think this is a life lesson I’ll always be learning somehow.
