According to Nancy Sclossberg, the following four things determine severity of a transition. (Schlossberg, 1998). Following each variable are questions that individuals can ask themselves or that career professionals can ask clients to help them manage a transition.

Situation Itself - timing, impact and amount of control
On a 1-10 scale, note how “bad” it it?
• What is its timing (worst or best possible time)?
• How long is there to absorb its impact?
• Is there anything positive about it?
• How much control can I exert over it?
• Is it temporary or long in duration?

2. Self -- coping skills, experience and outlook
• Do I see the glass as half empty or half full?
• Do I believe that I can exert control?
• “Have I had past successful experience with change?
• Do I know how to cope by using humor, relaxation, exercise, meditation etc.?
• What internal resources do I bring?

3. Supports - people, agencies, financial capability.
•Do I have friends and family who care? Who are willing to help me?
• Am I willing to ask for help or develop a network of supporters?
• Are there agencies that can help?
• Are there sufficient material resources?

4. Strategies – developing a plan to move through and out of a transition
• What are some ways to see this situation in a different and more positive light?
• Are there some inner resources that I could further develop?
• Are there some additional support people or agencies that can help?
• What are some alternative ways that I can move out of this situation?
• Which seems to be the best way?
• What steps do I need to take and when should I take these steps?

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