I have learned that while there are many similarities in a MLC, there are also some differences.
Generally, though, the MLCer goes through some stages. Not all of them go through each one. Not all of them go through them in the same order.
They go in and out of them. Up and around again while trying to figure out their stuff.
They are trying to figure out what they want, who they are. They are trying to reconcile what behaviors will stay from before the MLC. What things they will keep from during the crisis. What do they want their lives to look like now?
They have to decipher and accept what brought them into the tunnel.
Because all this inner turmoil is happening, it causes them to sometimes revert back to some of the behaviors from the beginning of it all.
They need to reconcile what happened in that stage and then close the door on it.
It is normal for them to revisit a lot of it.
This really is the time for you to let them know you are around, but, let them see you are giving them a lot of space. This time is crucial. They are extremely fragile. They are working really hard.
It is all part of the process. It is all part of the journey out of the tunnel.
I know it is so hard to watch. I know that your first instinct may be to want to reach in and pull them the rest of the way out.
But, while you can be there guiding them from a distance, this part really has to be done by them. If it isn’t, they may need to finish it later.
So, hang in there. Remember how far you've come. You are getting closer to the finish line.
Now is not the time to quit. You can dig in just a bit more.
