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Hello tLm Family

Writer's picture: Kelly WackermanKelly Wackerman

I'm learning to embrace the ‘Liminal Space’, and I want to share 

with you what I'm learning.


You know that space that’s in between ‘letting go of the old’ and ‘embracing the new’? If you’re anything like me, you know it well. Did you also know it has a name? Well, it does, and it’s called the ‘liminal space’. Until recently, I never knew it had a name.


I wrote about it in the tLm Tuesday News (first week of June), but I really wanted to explore it further in the blog. 



The liminal space is that in-between place. It can be a physical or emotional space. In how it relates to ‘change’ (which I’ve been talking a lot about lately), it’s that period of time from when you want to (or maybe have to) let go of the old but have yet to fully embrace the new. It can be daunting and also exhilarating. It’s a powerful place to be when the potential for transformation is looking you in the eyes and inviting you in. Sometimes the pause, the waiting, can feel agonizing. Sometimes, just trying to make the decision to change can be brutal, it tests our resolve and pushes us right up against all our fears. I know this place all too well. I've come to realize that I navigate these transitions with a mix of excitement and complete uncertainty, knowing that I really need to take action and that I want to, but also feeling paralyzed and unsure of what steps to take next, what invitations to accept or avoid, or what direction is ideal for what I’m truly trying to move closer to.


I’ve been in that ‘liminal space’ for a while now. If you've had a chance to read any recent issues of tLm Tuesday News, then you know I've been sharing a lot about 'the power of change' and being in this liminal space, as much as I want it to be all about where I'm going next, the truth is it’s more about the process of waiting, of listening, of learning to ‘calm down my own nervous system,’ of being patient while I’m in this ‘in-between.’ It’s so uncomfortable, but I’m learning or trying to learn to find peace in that place. It doesn’t come naturally to me, but I see how important it is and that “I need it!” I need that peace, that calm, that white space. I seem to also struggle against having it for some reason. I resist it. Like there’s part of me working against myself, against what’s best for me. It’s strange, but I’m working on that too. That’s what this piece is all about, really. The work I’m doing that you might be doing too. I'm working on being more present with myself, listening more deeply to what’s inviting me, and paying closer attention to where I’m most needed and where this next part of my journey is taking me.  


I feel like I’m standing in front of a new door, where the past could be behind me, and the future is just ahead, waiting for me to “come in!” It feels uncomfortable, not because it’s wrong, but because it's unfamiliar. What gives me hope (and confidence if I let it!)  is knowing that once I step through into the unknown, it’s a place of huge potential and growth for me. I think it’s natural to feel a bit uneasy, maybe a lot uneasy, maybe even terrified! Letting go of the old can be scary, but any discomfort I’m feeling I know is a sign that I’m growing and moving in the direction of what's next.


That’s where you find me today, in early June of 2024. I’m writing the date because I want to remember this moment, so when I look back to this point, “this space”, I’ll get to see how far I’ve come, that I did it, that… I made it.  


Here, in this ‘liminal space, I’m trying to let go of my fears, of what’s holding me back and embrace something new, something more aligned, something better for me and everyone around me.


In closing, for those of you who might be in that in-between season, too, I want to share some of the things I’m doing (or thinking about doing - lol!) to help me embrace and navigate this period with more grace, confidence, and a little less fear. If you’re going through it like I am, I hope you find this helpful. 


Navigating the Liminal Space


Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel a range of emotions. Acknowledge them without judgment. All your emotions are valid whether you feel fear, excitement, sadness, or joy.


Stay Present: Focus on the present moment. Mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling can help you stay grounded and connected to the here and now.


Set Intentions, Not Expectations: Instead of setting rigid expectations, set flexible intentions. This will allow you to remain open to new opportunities and possibilities you might not have considered.


Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community. Whether it’s friends, family, or a mentor, having people who understand and support you and your journey can make all the difference.


Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. Celebrate your progress and acknowledge your courage in navigating this transition. It’s a big deal.


Trust the Process: Have faith in yourself and your choices. You can course-correct any time if you feel off track or out of alignment. Trust that this liminal space is a necessary step toward your next beginning. The discomfort you feel is only temporary and will lead to what you are actually seeking.


Transitioning through the liminal space is powerful. It’s where you begin to shed the old while making room for the new. I hope you will embrace this period with an open heart and a curious mind. It might not be easy, but I know it will be worth it.


Remember, you are not alone on this journey. “I’m going through, too, right now, in fact!” By acknowledging your feelings, staying present, setting intentions, seeking support, celebrating small wins, and trusting the process, you can navigate this transitional period with wonder and excitement and let the mystery of what’s ahead inspire you. The new chapter awaiting you holds a world of possibilities.


I'll be here, cheering you on.


With love,

Kelly

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