When we consider the scale of the challenges we as humanity currently face, more and more of us are realising the imperative to include inner emotional and psychological dimensions in the work we are doing – both in terms of supporting the effectiveness of our work and in resourcing us to meet the feelings and sense of helplessness that often goes hand in hand with the reality of what is unfolding in our world today.
If we accept that our inner and outer worlds are entwined, making an outer systemic change must also involve some kind of inner shift.
If we accept that the outer world is influenced by our diverse and respective worldviews, then it follows that we cannot create a truly different external world without getting to know and making changes within our inner landscape.
Inner Transition draws on and connects with a diversity of models, areas of study and cultural traditions. Inner Transition is all about supporting each of us to embrace what is true for us in each moment – which means Inner Transition feels and looks differently for everyone. And for some people Inner Transition feels problematic and can elicit strong feelings of frustration and/ or fear; these feelings are all welcome within the territory of Inner Transition.
A balance between inner and outer change
We often find that the most thriving Transition groups are paying as much attention to their culture, processes, structures and relationships as they are to their practical projects, activities and outputs. And we know that individuals and groups risk burn-out or collapse if they don’t balance action, decision-making and activity with rest, reflection, connection and celebration (balancing being and doing).
There is a rich and developing body of knowledge about what we call Inner Transition which can help individuals and groups to look after themselves well and to be much more effective catalysts for change.
Inner Transition resources and teachings figure strongly in our Essential Guide to Doing Transition and are threaded through the seven essential ingredients.
You can find out more about the context and history of Inner Transition here.
Inner Transition covers a lot of territories – we encourage you to explore its themes (see buttons below), find out what speaks to you and your group, and gently experiment.
The success of the Transition movement may well rest on whether we can create a culture that truly supports a balance between inner and outer change.
What does Inner Transition look and feel like?
Inner Transition is about connection – with ourselves, others and the natural world.
Inner Transition is about creating healthy culture at all levels of scale – our own personal culture, our group culture and the culture within communities, movements, the world and ecosystems more generally.