LifeSHIFT: Work & the Spiritual Journey
Workshop held at Alverno College 03/16/2013

Since 2002, The Center for Life Transitions (CLT) has helped individuals clarify skills, develop confidence, address fears, and overcome obstacles in making successful career transitions.

Fourteen (14) adults in work related transition participated in a one day retreat/workshop at Alverno College, led by Dr. Tom Bachhuber and Dr. Connie Popp. Tom is President of the Board for the Center (CLT) and Connie, a Board Member, is Director of Campus Ministries at Alverno College.

The program provided insights, ideas and information on career planning, vocational call and spiritual formation. “Transitions become difficult when not seen in their entirety. Taking time to analyze, reflect and ponder the situation from a variety of positions – practical, emotional, spiritual – produces invaluable benefits,” commented Connie after the event.

Participants were involved in presentations, discussions, journaling, and quiet time for reflection. They also took the Strong Interest Inventory before the program. Perhaps the most helpful activity was the completing of their Life RoadMap where they recalled and wrote about life lessons, successes, faith and key relationships in various stages of their lives. Tom stated, “The program is unique in combining elements of a retreat for reflection and a workshop where tasks are accomplished and an action plan developed.”

Some comments from the participants:

“Thank you so much for the wonderful day! I felt energized all weekend.”

“The Life RoadMap activity was particularly useful as I had never viewed my life that way. The process and discussion were invaluable in seeing how my past successes can help me now.”

“I appreciated the knowledge and commitment of the presenters—their expertise was great. And more importantly, I felt they really cared about the work and about me.”

“Being out of work is hard. I felt the program’s emphasis on career, vocation and spiritual ideas gave me encouragement and a better direction.”