When the Transition Takes Longer Than You Thought (And You're Still Waiting)

EPISODE SUMMARYYou thought this transition would take three months. Maybe six. But here you are—eight months in, twelve months in, maybe longer—and you're still in the middle. You're starting to wonder: What's wrong with me? Why is this taking so long? Why can't I just figure it out?Here's the truth: You're not failing. Extended transitions are normal. Most transitions take 18-24 months to fully stabilize—not the three to six months we expect. This episode is about surviving the extended timeline without losing yourself, redefining what progress actually looks like, and building the resilience to stay in the middle without collapsing back to the old or forcing a premature new.If you're laid off and still looking, retired and still aimless, or in a new role that still doesn't feel right—this one's for you.RESEARCH & RESOURCES MENTIONEDNancy Schlossberg's Transition Theory - Framework for understanding transitions through the 4 S's: Situation, Self, Support, and StrategiesHarvard Business Review (2023): "Why Career Transition Is So Hard" - Research showing career transitions typically take 18-24 months to stabilize because they involve identity work, not just job searchAnnie Duke: "Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away" - Strategic resource reallocation and why taking interim roles can be the smartest move during extended transitionsTHIS WEEK'S REFLECTION ACTIVITYDownload the Redefining Progress worksheetCONNECT WITH JESSICAIf you're navigating an extended transition and need support redefining what progress actually looks like, visit Asbatra.com to learn about one-on-one coaching. We don't just talk about patience—we set micro-milestones, experiment, and build tolerance for the timeline without the guilt.Website: https://www.asbatra.com/Substack: https://asbatracoaching.substack.com/- Join the community for deeper discussions and downloadable worksheetsLeave feedback: Use the thumbs up/down button in your podcast app or comment on SubstackEPISODE CREDITSHost & Producer: Asbatra CoachingEpisode Length: 33 minutes