The Carry-On Test: What to Pack for Your Next Life Chapter
The hardest part of any journey isn't the destination. It's deciding what to leave behind.
I've helped hundreds of professionals navigate major transitions, and they all ask the same question: "How do I know I'm ready?"
My answer always comes back to what I call the Carry-On Test.
What would you pack if you could only bring one bag to your next life chapter?
Here's what successful transition-makers consistently pack:
1. Your Core Values (Your Compass) These don't change based on circumstances. They guide every decision when you're in unfamiliar territory.
2. Three Key Relationships (Your Crew) Not your entire network—just the people who believe in your vision even when you can't see it clearly.
3. One Clear Next Step (Your Map) Not the entire journey planned out. Just enough visibility to move forward with confidence.
4. Curiosity Over Certainty (Your Fuel) The willingness to learn and adapt beats having all the answers every single time.
What most people overpack:
Others' timelines and expectations
Perfect scenarios and guarantees
Every skill they think they "should" have
Backup plans for their backup plans
The truth about successful transitions: They happen when you stop waiting for the perfect moment and start moving with what you have.
Your carry-on is lighter than you think. Your courage is stronger than you know.
What's one thing you've been carrying that's actually weighing you down? Share in the comments—sometimes naming it is the first step to leaving it behind.
To dive deeper into courageous leadership and create lasting impact, explore my keynote, "Courage as a Carry-On."
