Growth isn’t just about what we’re building, it’s also about what we’re letting go.

In this episode, Indra and Stephanie examine the hidden grief that can accompany promotions, career pivots, restructures, and identity shifts. They talk about grieving what you thought would be, survivor’s guilt in the workplace, and why ignoring emotions doesn’t make them disappear. This conversation offers language, perspective, and practical tools for moving through change without bypassing yourself, or your team.

Takeaways

• Grief can show up in unexpected ways, even during positive changes.
• The 'goo stage' represents the messy transformation process.
• Letting go of past identities is crucial for growth.
• Community plays a significant role in our emotional well-being.
• Grief is not just about loss; it can be about change and transition.
• Acknowledging grief in the workplace is essential for a healthy culture.
• Emotions are energy in motion; they need to be allowed to flow.
• Grief is not linear; it can resurface at any time.
• Building a supportive community can help navigate grief.
• Compassion for oneself is key during times of transition.

Follow Stephanie:

• Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/
• Stephanie’s Website: https://www.stephanie-simpson.com/
• Stephanie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/

More from Indra and The Messy Middle Matters

• Indra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrak/
• Indra’s Blog: https://peopleprocessthings.substack.com
• The Messy Middle Matters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themessymiddlematters/
• Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters: https://messymiddlematters.com/feedback
• The Messy Middle Matters Merch https://messymiddlemerch.com

Keywords

grief, change, transformation, identity, workplace culture, emotional intelligence, goo stage, community, leadership, burnout

In this episode, Indra explores the multifaceted role of AI in our lives, emphasizing its potential as a tool for accessibility, communication, and personal growth. She discusses how AI can enhance our work, serve as a thinking partner, and help us engage with broader audiences. Indra also highlights the importance of human agency in shaping the tools we use, advocating for a thoughtful approach to technology that prioritizes clarity and dignity.

Takeaways

• AI is not about cheating; it's a reflection of our input.
• Using AI can enhance accessibility in communication.
• AI can serve as a partner in amplifying our thoughts.
• Engaging with AI is crucial for shaping the future.
• AI helps distill complex ideas into digestible formats.
• The world was not built for everyone; AI can help navigate that.
• AI can provide perspectives that enhance our understanding.
• It's important to communicate in ways that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Tools like AI are essential for scaling our efforts effectively.
• Human agency must shape the tools we use, not the other way around.

More from Indra and The Messy Middle Matters

• Indra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrak/
• Indra’s Blog: https://peopleprocessthings.substack.com
• The Messy Middle Matters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themessymiddlematters/
• Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters: https://messymiddlematters.com/feedback
• The Messy Middle Matters Merch https://messymiddlemerch.com

Keywords

AI, accessibility, communication, human agency, technology, innovation, thinking partner, future of work, systems thinking, digital tools

In this episode, Indra and Stephanie Simpson explore the concept of the 'Goo Stage,' a transformative phase in life where individuals experience discomfort and uncertainty. They discuss the importance of navigating transitions, the role of leaders in supporting their teams during these times, and the significance of creating supportive environments. Stephanie shares insights on how to acknowledge and validate feelings during the Goo Stage, emphasizing the need for community and resources to aid in personal growth. The conversation concludes with invitations for listeners to reflect on their support systems and the importance of being present in the moment.

Takeaways

• The Goo Stage represents a transformative phase in life.
• Transitions are crucial and should be navigated intentionally.
• Leaders play a vital role in supporting their teams during change.
• Creating a supportive environment is essential for growth.
• Acknowledging and validating feelings is the first step in navigating the Goo Stage.
• Community support is crucial during times of transition.
• One-size-fits-all solutions are often ineffective.
• Personal growth requires discomfort and vulnerability.
• Resources and tools should be tailored to individual needs.
• Reflection on support systems can enhance personal development.

Follow Stephanie:

• Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/
• Stephanie’s Website: https://www.stephanie-simpson.com/
• Stephanie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniesimpsoncoaching/

More from Indra and The Messy Middle Matters

• Indra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrak/
• Indra’s Blog: https://peopleprocessthings.substack.com
• The Messy Middle Matters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themessymiddlematters/
• Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters: https://messymiddlematters.com/feedback
• The Messy Middle Matters Merch https://messymiddlemerch.com

Keywords

Goo Stage, Transition, Change Management, Leadership, Support, Personal Growth, Stress Management, Transformation, Community, Resources