Transitions

I was recently working with a client who is moving into an exciting new role. It has been such a pleasure to see the journey she has been on, and also a great time for reflection.

As we transition from one thing to another:

• What patterns (of thought, behaviour, etc.) serve us well, and will continue to serve us?
• What patterns may not be as useful? What patterns is it time to let go of?
• And are there NEW patterns we would like to incorporate as you move forward in your new role?

In moments of transition, such as starting a new leadership role, leaders are presented with a unique opportunity to create new patterns and build practices that support their long-term success. These transitions allow for the intentional establishment of rhythms and behaviors that can help sustain a leader’s capacity to make room for personal and professional growth. One of the most powerful tools leaders can utilize during such times is the concept of “Space to Lead.”

Creating Patterns Early in Transition

Stepping into a new role often comes with a natural inclination to immerse oneself in the new responsibilities and meet immediate demands. However, it is crucial for leaders to resist the temptation to fill every available moment. Instead, they should embrace this transition as an opportunity to cultivate new habits, starting with creating time for reflection and intentional leadership practice. These patterns, once set, can be maintained throughout their tenure, helping them to avoid burnout and maintain clarity. We need to be intentional about creating this space, and hopefully (as is the case with my client), their new employer recognizes the value of creating this space and has provided a generous “ramp up” time, to get to know the organization, the people, and more.

One aspect of “Space to Lead” that becomes especially important during transitions is carving out intentional time for reflection. Whether it’s 30 minutes at the end of the week or daily brief pauses, these moments help leaders regain perspective, track their own progress, and ensure they are leading with purpose. In the early days of a new role, leaders have the freedom to design their schedules and choose what gets prioritized. By committing to reflection early on, they lay the groundwork for consistent self-awareness and decision-making throughout their leadership journey.

Setting Intentional Boundaries

Transitions are also a time to redefine boundaries—both professional and personal. Leaders must learn to say no to every demand on their time and energy. By creating intentional space for themselves, they give permission to say no to unnecessary meetings or tasks that do not directly contribute to their priorities. In this way, they control their calendars, ensuring that important work, personal reflection, and meaningful leadership practices are protected.

Leaders should think critically about how to schedule their weeks, setting recurring “Space to Lead” meetings with themselves. These times, free from the distractions of the workplace, allow for thoughtful reflection on how to improve leadership practices, manage teams, and lead through challenges.

Reinventing the Work Environment

Another key part of this approach is creating a conducive environment for reflection and strategic thinking. As leaders establish their new routines, they should think about the physical and mental spaces that support their “Space to Lead” practices. For some, this might mean a quiet walk outdoors; for others, it could be stepping away from the desk to write reflections. By rethinking their workspaces and integrating new practices into their schedules, leaders can avoid the pattern of reactive leadership and ensure they are being intentional in their actions.

As leaders enter into new roles, they have a powerful opportunity to establish practices that will support their growth and leadership effectiveness. Using the transition as a time to build new patterns—particularly around reflection and creating “Space to Lead”—is essential for long-term success. By setting intentional boundaries, maintaining a reflective practice, and creating supportive environments, leaders can ensure that they make room for thoughtful, impactful leadership throughout their careers. This not only benefits their well-being but also enhances their ability to lead others effectively.