One of the many benefits of living in New England is the opportunity to experience four distinct seasons. Although our winters can be long and punishing, there is an almost universal sigh of relief when any hint of spring appears. The transition into spring may be subtle, but evidence of growth and rebirth can be found everywhere - in the growing light, increasing warmth, and abundance of bulbs, buds and birds.

What are your signs of spring fever? Do you have a desire to change direction or maybe start something brand new? Or are you feeling distracted, restless and unable to concentrate? Spring fever can create that kind of paradox, showing up as both anticipation and lack of focus. These are all signs of change and growth and they are completely normal, even though you may feel as if you're going a little crazy.

Although it can seem chaotic at times, change tends to unfold in a predictable pattern. If you know where you are and what to expect from each stage, it can be easier to navigate. Below are the first three stages of change (the remaining three stages will be covered in an upcoming issue). Choose the statement that most closely matches how you are feeling and try following the suggestions for each stage.

• "I am lost."
o You are in the Discovery Stage. Once you acknowledge that you feel lost, it means you can begin moving towards whatever comes next, even if you are unable to see clearly in any direction yet.
o How you feel: Disconnected, restless or frustrated.
o Actions to take: This is your opportunity to become a research scientist, evaluating your own life. It's the ideal time to take stock of where you are, what's working and what isn't working. This is not the time for making a change just yet; it's about getting clarity and confidence. Read, journal, and work with a coach or a trusted friend to sort out your feelings and evaluate your options.

• "I am uncertain."
o You are in the Planning Stage. Once you have narrowed down the possible directions you could take, it's common to become overwhelmed by the number of choices and feel unable to make a decision.
o How you feel: Indecisive, disoriented or anxious.
o Actions to take: After assessing your options, you may have an idea of the direction you want to go. But if you don't feel ready to make a move, you may need more information. Reach out to others who have done what you're thinking about doing. Ask about their experiences and advice. This is the time to strategize how this new direction will fit into your current circumstances.

• "I feel ready."
o You are in the Action Stage. At this stage you are probably tired of thinking and planning, and you just want to get moving.
o How you feel: Restless, excited or impatient.
o Actions to take: The key to the Action stage is to actually take action! The danger is getting stuck in an infinite loop in the Planning Stage. Taking some concrete steps will create momentum that will propel you forward. So apply for the business loan, buy the airline tickets, join the online dating service, or send in that college application. You're ready to bloom!

"We should not be taught to wait for inspiration to start a thing. Action always generates inspiration. Inspiration seldom generates action." ~Frank Tibolt

Ginny Williams is a professional life coach based in Plum Island, MA. She is a coach, writer and speaker specializing in life transitions. Coach Ginny can be reached at (978) 462-2334, e-mail Ginny@CoachGinny.com or at
www.coachginny.com

For more articles by this author or articles on different topics visit the Applaud Women Library.