Hello and welcome, Reader!

Some changes begin quietly. Not with fireworks or big decisions, but with a subtle discomfort — a sense that what once mattered no longer does.​
That the ladder we’re climbing might be leaning against the wrong wall.

We call it “a career change,” “a new chapter,” or “a turning point,” but at its heart, every meaningful shift begins the same way — with a change in values.

What matters to us — and why it changes

Human life unfolds in chapters. Erik Erikson, a psychologist who mapped our inner development across the lifespan, said that each stage of life brings its own essential question:

• In our twenties, we might value adventure, growth, and proving ourselves.
• In midlife, belonging, purpose, and contribution often become stronger.
• Later, reflection, legacy, and connection start to take the lead.

At every stage, we don’t just grow older — we grow deeper.
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And when our external life no longer reflects our inner values, something in us starts to stir.

That stirring is the beginning of change.

From strengths to shifts: how values guide our direction

If we look at this through the lens of the VIA (Values in Action) Strengths Framework, our deepest values are often expressed through our signature strengths — the qualities that energize us and feel most us.

For example:

• Curiosity and love of learning might drive us to explore new careers or fields.
• Kindness or fairness might pull us toward work that serves others.
• Bravery and hope help us take the leap when comfort whispers, “stay.”
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When these strengths are honored, life feels aligned. When they’re ignored, we feel disconnected — from ourselves and our purpose.

So every time we change jobs, roles, or direction, we’re not just adjusting circumstances.
​We’re realigning with who we’ve become.

🌍 The universal language of values

Across cultures, the form of change may differ — one person moves countries, another starts a new business, a third chooses to rest after years of striving — but the why beneath it is strikingly similar.

We change when something inside us says:

And that call to realignment is universal.
It transcends language, background, and geography.
Because underneath it all, what we’re truly seeking is integrity — a life that reflects our evolving truth.

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From reflection to practice

Knowing this, I decided to start The Next Chapter Journey Tracks with a gentle yet powerful foundation — values.

That’s where both the very first Pathfinder and Pioneer cohorts began their journeys.
In Week 1, they explored what truly matters to them today. Not what used to matter years ago.

They clarified which values they’re ready to commit to, and which ones they’re no longer willing to compromise.

It’s a deeply personal process. And it’s also the first step toward authentic, lasting change.

🎯 Curious where you stand today?

Before you make any big moves, it helps to understand how you currently relate to change itself.
That’s why I invite you to explore these two short quizzes — your first gentle steps toward clarity:

• 🧐 What is Your Style of Dealing With Change?
  ​Discover your natural style of transformation: are you an Explorer, Pathfinder, or Pioneer?

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• 💫 Are You Ready for the 8-Week Next Chapter Journey Today?
  ​This new Readiness to Change Quiz helps you sense how prepared — emotionally, mentally, and practically — you are to take the next step.

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Both are simple, reflective, and free.

You might be surprised by what you discover.
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One gentle prompt

Take a quiet moment today and ask yourself:

If you’d like, write down your top three values and one small way you could honor each this week.​
Tiny acts of alignment often spark the biggest transformations.

🫶 Help someone start their own chapter

If you know a friend or colleague who’s been sensing change but unsure where to begin, share this letter. Sometimes, the first step isn’t a leap — it’s simply rediscovering what truly matters.

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Next Wednesday, I’ll share reflections and insights from our first cohorts as they navigate their early weeks — learning how values, courage, and real-world action weave together in practice.

Until then, Elena

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