Rooted in Change: What Plants Teach Us About Transition
Over the past eight months of moving into a new job, state, and community, I’ve been
reminded of just how difficult—and rewarding—change can be. Harvard Business
Review notes that transition in today’s workplace is tougher than ever. Promotions, role
changes, or entirely new ventures demand hyper-collaboration and constant speed,
leaving even the best-prepared professionals struggling to find their footing.
Fortunately, I spend much of my time around plants—planting, transplanting, pruning.
Their process for surviving and thriving offers powerful lessons. If you’ve ever re-potted
a houseplant or started a garden, you’ve likely seen leaves droop and stems sag. That’s
transplant shock. It looks like struggle, but really, the plant is redirecting energy to its
roots, learning how to belong in its new soil.
Humans aren’t so different. Every time we step into change—whether beginning a new
role, moving to a new place, or wrestling with identity and purpose—we experience our
own kind of shock. We feel tired, unsettled, or out of place. Yet, like the plant, that pause
is not failure. It’s a necessary stage of growth.
Some transitions happen quickly. A plant may recover from minor root disturbance in a
week or two. People, too, can adapt to smaller changes within days or weeks. But
bigger shifts take longer. Perennials and trees often need a full season before thriving in
new ground. Likewise, in life and work, major transitions unfold over months or even
years. What looks like stillness on the surface is really just hiding deep growth.
The lesson is clear: transition is not an instant act, but a season. During the process
we may feel messy and vulnerable, but beneath the surface we are alive with
change—learning, rooting, and preparing to thrive.
Support systems matter. Plants need water, nutrients, and the right environment.
Humans need community, care, and safe conditions. As leaders, coworkers, and
community members, we have both the opportunity and responsibility to help one
another through transition.
Charlie Brown once said, “In the book of life, the answers aren’t in the back.” Life
doesn’t come with shortcuts. We find the way forward by rooting deeply, leaning on
each other, and trusting the process.
Keep growing, thriving, and helping others do the same,
Jeff
