road trip — Blog — Athena Wellness

Career Transition Grief and Identity Loss

A recurring theme in my work with students and clients these days is the impact of identity loss and resulting grief in times of life transition. Identity loss is defined as a state of confusion or uncertainty about your sense of self. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including major life changes, such as retirement, job loss, divorce, or death of a loved one.

You experience a sense of identity loss when going through a major life change because these transitions often involve a shift in roles, relationships or responsibilities. It's this shift that can lead to a sense of confusion, uncertainty and even fear about who you are and what you want. Here are some ideas to work through it all.

The Medicinal Power of the Open Road

I recently returned from what I'll call an intentional road trip. Intentional because it was mindfully designed – or more accurately “undesigned” – to be counter to my usual thought process and safety nets.

What I'd like to share with you today are the transformational qualities of such an adventure and how you might plan one for yourself, even if it's only for one day. We'll start with a little background, talk about the benefits and challenges of such a trip, how to prepare for your own adventure, how to invite the transformational elements to your road trip, and then a few takeaways from my experience.

The Propulsion of a True Decision

In the September 1st blog, The Birth of a Rite of Passage, I shared my desire to commemorate my 60th birthday in 2024 in an impactful way. I could feel a new adventure begin to form, a mindful quest to help me embody this new decade.

And without warning, I woke on a Sunday morning a few weeks back and just knew – I would be roadtripping to Alaska for 3 ½ months in 2024.

I ended the post by quoting podcast guest Sara Harris who said, “Making the decision to commit to the vision quest, when you say ‘Yes’ – it begins.” And that certainly feels true. I feel like I’m “in it,” like the experience has been launched. But there’s more…

The Birth of a Rite of Passage

There’s a big life milestone on my horizon – I turn 60 in 2024. I start thinking about occasions like this about two years out. It gives me time to plan how I’d like to quietly commemorate the event in a way that’s deeply meaningful for me.

I have to admit, it’s kinda mindboggling that I’m approaching a new decade. I feel younger in mind, body and spirit than I have at any other time in my adult life – just brimming with vitality. But 60?!

In Japan, the 60th birthday is special, as it’s believed that the celebrant begins a new circle of life. It’s traditionally commemorated by wearing red – kimonos for women, vests and hats for men. It’s believed to be a time of rebirth and the color red symbolizes protection. Red gifts are usually given to babies and expectant mothers, making this midlife rebirth all the more celebratory – a beautiful rite of passage.

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