How to talk about theTime In-between when You are in Career Transition

The Liminal Period: How to Talk About Career Transition When You Don’t Have All the Answers

The liminal period is challenging in itself. And even more challenging is explaining it to those around you – your partner, family, colleagues, friends. Especially when it’s not only your work that’s changing but you as a person. The way you talk about transition shapes how you experience it.

1) You don’t need a career plan. You just need honesty.   When one professional chapter ends, people expect clear answers: “Where are you going next?” “What kind of job are you looking for?” “When do you start?”

But transition isn’t about a plan. It’s about orientation.

And it’s perfectly fine to say: • “I’m in a career transition.” • “I’m giving myself space to find the next right step.” • “Right now I need a pause, not a decision.”

Honesty is stronger than quick answers.

2) Set boundaries: what to share professionally and what to keep personal   Not everyone can handle your “I don’t know yet.” And that’s okay.

You decide: • what you share with family, • what you share with colleagues, • what you keep to yourself.

Career transition is personal. And personal transition is professional. You don’t have to explain it to everyone.

3) Communicate the process, not the outcome   Instead of: “I don’t know what I’ll do.” try: “I’m mapping out how I want to work next and what feels meaningful.”

Instead of: “I don’t have a plan.” try: “I’m collecting signals of what draws me professionally. When it’s clear I’ll take the step.”

That gives others a frame and gives you respect.

4) Protect your pace (even when others push)   Career changes often trigger pressure: “Just get something.” “Don’t let it take too long.” “Find a job quickly.”

But transition has its own rhythm. And it can’t be rushed.

You can say: • “I need to go at my own pace.” • “It’s important for me to slow down so I can choose well.” • “I’m making conscious decisions, not fast ones.”

That’s professional and personal self‑respect.

5) Surround yourself with people who understand identity and career shifts   Not everyone gets that a career change is also an inner change. But some do.

Look for: • someone who can listen without pressure, • a community that supports growth, • a guide who understands both transitions and professional direction.

Transition isn’t a period you have to handle alone. It’s a period that deserves to be held – consciously, humanly, with respect for who you’re becoming.