Do you feel like you’re in a holding pattern?
Do you feel like you’re in a holding pattern?
This has been coming up a lot lately in my coaching conversations.
The consultant who wanted to quit his corporate job to start his own business, but kept putting it off because he wanted to save “a little bit more”.
The leader who was given a retention bonus to stick around for a few months after the acquisition closed but is now “bored out of her mind” because there’s nothing to do.
The designer who has seen all his colleagues leave but has stayed because “it’s a tough job market”.
The job seeker who keeps sending out resumes because that’s how he’s always gotten a job in the past, even though the clues are there that a job search in today’s market needs to look different.
The contractor who is waiting for her contract to renew, even though she’d really rather it didn’t.
Each one of these clients is in a holding pattern, in limbo, waiting for their circumstances to change.
If you’re finding yourself in a situation like this, consider these ideas that have helped some of my clients:
Be clear about what you’re waiting for and what action you’ll take as soon as that moment arrives. Even better if you can start taking action now.
Set an intention around what you’re looking to get out of this holding season. Often, there are experiments to run and experiences to gain while we’re preparing for the next chapter.
Envision yourself clearly in your next chapter. It can be easy to stay in a holding pattern when we’re not sure what comes next. With clarity can come confidence in the new season.
Are you in a holding pattern? Send me a message. I’d love to hear from you.
July 23, 2026
About the author:
Christina Von Stroh is a leadership coach who helps her clients become wildly successful by applying iterative software development practices to achieve their dreams. Want to work with Christina to help you iterate towards the person you’re becoming?
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