Respite Reflections’ purpose is to help people push the “pause” button in their transition work — to take a break from the thinking, researching, networking and preparing for interviews.
Taking a moment to center yourself, ponder a positive thought, and focus on a broader perspective is invaluable during a time of transition.

Respite: A short interval of rest or relief

“What we perceive as a failure
may simply be our inner being’s way of telling us
that we are ready to move to a new level of growth.”

– Anne Wilson Schaef

I remember taking an accounting class and wanting to drop out after my first test produced quite a disappointing grade. Someone I worked with advised me to stick with it, saying I could always quit, but sticking with it might produce surprising results. So I truly studied, instead of just “kind of” studying and the next test produced a very rewarding grade. The course enabled me to understand concepts and terms I hadn’t imagined I could learn.

When we disappoint ourselves, the pain is great. But overcoming that failure with persistence and hope can mightily aid the growth of one’s character.

Dr. Connie PoppDr. Connie Popp is a board member for The Center for Life Transitions as well as an active facilitator for the Center’s Life-SHIFT and Job Search Courage programs. She is also the Director of Campus Ministry at Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Read more.