Listening While You Walk

Navigate Change Framework™

Design Your Change Series | Part 4

One of the greatest gifts of designing experiments isn't that they always confirm the right path. It's that they teach us.

In the last post, I encouraged you to think less about creating the perfect plan and more about designing thoughtful experiments—small, intentional steps that help you explore what God may be inviting you into.

But here's the question that naturally follows:

How do you know what your experiments are telling you?

Not long ago, I was coaching someone who was frustrated by their lack of clarity. They kept saying, "I just don't know what I want." As we talked something interesting happened. Almost without realizing it, they began describing what they knew they didn't want.

They didn't want to return to the kind of work that had left them exhausted.

They didn't want another role that demanded constant travel.

They didn't want to continue saying yes to responsibilities that no longer aligned with who they were becoming.

So I paused and asked, "Isn't that clarity, too?"

It was one of those aha moments. Because sometimes we think clarity only counts when we've discovered exactly what we're supposed to do next. But often, clarity begins by recognizing what no longer fits. That's the kind of learning offered to us in transition seasons.

In fact, thoughtful experiments can teach us in at least two directions. They reveal what gives us life. And they reveal what doesn't.

Sometimes we discover new passions. Sometimes we discover old expectations we no longer want to carry. Sometimes we find ourselves energized by work we never imagined enjoying. Other times, we realize we've been holding onto an identity, a role, or a dream that's quietly run its course. Both discoveries matter.

When I look back on my own transitions, I can see this pattern again and again. Moving overseas and all the transitions within that transition taught me things I never could have learned by staying where I was. It also revealed assumptions I needed to let go of.

Over the years, there were roles and responsibilities I loved and others that weren't a good fit. Roles that gave me energy and others that slowly drained it. None of those experiences were wasted. Each one became another piece of the story God was writing.

That's why I rarely ask coaching clients, "Did your experiment work?" Instead, I ask, "What are you noticing?"

What gave you energy? What left you feeling drained? What surprised you? What seemed deeply aligned with your values and calling? What no longer feels like the person God is shaping you to become?

These questions shift our focus. Instead of measuring success or failure, we begin paying attention. And paying attention is often where discernment deepens. We stop trying to force clarity. Instead, we notice the patterns emerging over time. The experiences that consistently bring life. The opportunities that repeatedly feel forced. The invitations that keep resurfacing.

Slowly, what once felt uncertain begins to take shape. Not because we finally figured everything out. But because we've been listening while we walk. Perhaps that's one of God's quiet invitations in every transition. Not simply to arrive at the right destination. But to become the kind of people who pay attention to His leading along the way.

Responding to the Invitation

Take a few moments this week to reflect on something you've recently tried—a conversation, a project, a volunteer opportunity, a new responsibility, or even a change in your daily rhythm.

Then ask yourself:

• What gave me life?

• What consistently drained me?

• What surprised me?

• What no longer feels like a good fit for this season?

• What invitation seems to be emerging as I pay attention?

Remember, clarity isn't only about discovering what you want to pursue. Sometimes it's also about recognizing what you're ready to release. Both are gifts. Both move you toward a more hopeful and purposeful future.

-Tim

P.S. If you're experimenting, exploring, and still wondering what it all means, you're not alone. Sometimes the greatest value of coaching isn't helping you make a decision—it's helping you recognize the patterns God is already revealing. I'd love to help you listen well as you continue walking forward.