With the end of the school year upon many of us, I wanted to talk about endings and farewells.
I haven’t seen many people end well and wonder at what point we learned to slink away, instead of showing up and creating the best ending possible. Whether you have a last day on a job or last session of a coaching engagement coming up, I hope you know that it holds profound significance. It’s a culmination of your journey, a moment to honor the path you’ve traversed, and an opportunity to set the stage for what comes next. Here’s how to ensure this final interaction is as impactful and positive as the time leading up to it.
Prepare with Intention
Before this final meeting, take some time to prepare. Reflect on your experiences, the growth you’ve undergone, and think about what you want to communicate. Preparation allows you to approach this final session with clarity and ensures that you can express everything you want to without leaving anything unsaid.
Show Up Fully
For your last session, be fully present. This means being engaged, attentive, and responsive. It’s easy to be preoccupied with thoughts about the future or the change that’s coming, but this final meeting deserves your complete focus. Your full presence is a testament to your respect and gratitude for the experience and the individuals involved.
Express Gratitude
Gratitude is powerful. Express your thanks for the opportunities, the challenges, the support, and the growth. Be specific about what you’re grateful for. Acknowledge the individuals who have been part of your journey and the ways in which they’ve contributed to your development. A heartfelt “thank you” goes a long way in leaving a positive lasting impression.
Share Your Reflections and Learnings
Share the reflections and learnings you’ve gathered. This could be insights about yourself, new skills you’ve acquired, or how your perspective has changed. Sharing your learnings not only highlights your growth but also offers valuable feedback to others about their impact on your journey.
Discuss Next Steps
Discussing next steps can provide closure. Whether it’s outlining your plans, expressing hopes for the future, or discussing how you intend to apply what you’ve learned, talking about the path forward helps make the transition smoother for everyone involved.
Offer a Token of Appreciation
Consider offering a token of appreciation. This doesn’t have to be extravagant; a handwritten note, a small gift, or a symbolic item can convey a lot of meaning. It’s a tangible reminder of your appreciation and the time spent together.
Say Goodbye With Warmth
When it’s time to say goodbye, do so with warmth and sincerity. Look them in the eye and smile. Use phrases like “Until we meet again,” or “I look forward to seeing where our paths cross next,” to leave the door open for future interactions. Goodbyes are not just about ending; they’re also about acknowledging the connection and the time shared.
Reflect Post-Meeting
After the final session, take some time to reflect. How did it go? How do you feel? What do you hope for the future? This reflection helps solidify your experiences and the farewell, providing a sense of closure and peace.
Work with me
If you’re navigating the end of something and need some help ending well, click here to schedule a time for us to talk about how I can help you.