Leaning into Change
How many time have you heard, “Change is hard!” To be fair, it sure can be.
What I have noticed about the process of change both for myself as well as the people I work with, is how multi-faceted it is. The different aspects that are potentially problematic if you don’t recognize they are there!
Check out my Change Readiness Assessment. It just might help you gain some clarity about your process!
The Next Chapter Readiness Assessment
A guided reflection for navigating meaningful life transitions
Instructions:
For each statement, rate yourself from 1–5:
1 = Not at all true
2 = Slightly true
3 = Somewhat true
4 = Mostly true
5 = Very true
Respond honestly—this is not about getting a “high score,” but about gaining clarity.
1. Clarity of Direction
I have a sense of where I’m going—even if it’s not fully formed.
I can clearly identify what feels misaligned in my current life. 1 2 3 4 5
I know what I want more of in my next chapter. 1 2 3 4 5
I feel drawn toward something, not just away from something. 1 2 3 4 5
I can describe a vision for my future that excites me. 1 2 3 4 5
My desired direction feels authentic to me (not driven by others’ expectations). 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
2. Emotional Readiness
I am willing and able to navigate the emotions that come with change.
I acknowledge both the excitement and fear that come with change. 1 2 3 4 5
I am aware of what I may need to let go of (roles, identity, security). 1 2 3 4 5
I can tolerate uncertainty without becoming overwhelmed. 1 2 3 4 5
I have healthy ways to process stress and strong emotions. 1 2 3 4 5
I am willing to feel discomfort in service of growth. 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
3. Identity Flexibility
I am open to becoming someone new.
I am not overly attached to my current role or identity. 1 2 3 4 5
I am open to redefining success at this stage of life. 1 2 3 4 5
I can imagine myself living or working in a different way. 1 2 3 4 5
I trust my ability to grow into a new version of myself. 1 2 3 4 5
I see change as an evolution, not a loss of who I am. 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
4. Practical Readiness
I have the resources—or a plan to build them—for change.
I have a realistic understanding of my financial situation. 1 2 3 4 5
I have (or can create) time and space to focus on this transition. 1 2 3 4 5
I recognize the skills and strengths I can carry forward. 1 2 3 4 5
I am willing to learn or develop new skills if needed. 1 2 3 4 5
I can identify the real constraints vs. perceived barriers. 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
5. Decision & Action Capacity
I am able to move forward, even without perfect certainty.
I am capable of making important decisions without excessive delay. 1 2 3 4 5
I am willing to take small, imperfect steps forward. 1 2 3 4 5
I do not let overthinking prevent me from acting. 1 2 3 4 5
I have successfully navigated change in the past. 1 2 3 4 5
I trust myself to figure things out along the way. 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
6. Support & Environment
I am supported in making this transition.
I have people in my life who support my growth. 1 2 3 4 5
I feel safe discussing my desires for change with others. 1 2 3 4 5
I am surrounded by people who are growing or evolving. 1 2 3 4 5
I have (or am open to seeking) guidance or mentorship. 1 2 3 4 5
I am willing to have difficult but necessary conversations. 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
7. Inner Alignment & Intuition
I am connected to my deeper knowing.
I take time to listen to my inner voice or intuition. 1 2 3 4 5
I can distinguish between fear and inner guidance. 1 2 3 4 5
I trust myself to make aligned decisions. 1 2 3 4 5
I engage in practices that help me gain clarity (reflection, mindfulness, etc.). 1 2 3 4 5
My desired path feels meaningful—not just practical. 1 2 3 4 5
Subtotal: ____ / 25
Your Results
Step 1: Total Score
Add all section totals:
Overall Score: ____ / 175
Step 2: Readiness Snapshot
140–175 | Ready & Resourced
You have a strong foundation. The path forward is less about “if” and more about how and when.100–139 | Emerging Readiness
You’re on the edge of meaningful change. A few key areas need strengthening to build momentum.70–99 | Internally Called, Externally Hesitant
You feel the pull—but something is holding you back. Clarity and/or support will unlock movement.Below 70 | Not Yet Ready (But Aware)
This is a powerful starting point. Your work right now is awareness, not action.
Step 3: Your Growth Edge
Look at your lowest scoring section:
This is your Primary Growth Edge—the area that will unlock the most progress if addressed.
My lowest area is: __________________________
Step 4: Reflection Questions
What surprised me about my results?
Where am I more ready than I gave myself credit for?
What am I avoiding or not wanting to admit?
What would shift if I focused on just one area?
Step 5: Your Next Step
· Complete this sentence:
· “The next honest step I can take is…”
