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Every two weeks, I share my writing on investing, career transitions, meaningful work, parenting, living intentionally, and other topics that engage me.

In my fifties, I'm still trying to figure stuff out.

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Neutral Zone

The 39-mile Royal River crescendos along a series of falls before it empties into Yarmouth Marina, which leads to Casco Bay. With its journey complete, the river celebrates its arrival with gusto, more exclamation point than period, as the cool water rushes into the lower tidal basin.

One of the reasons I’m drawn to this spot is the bold transition between the bodies of water. It reminds me of my initial struggle to grasp the concept of estuaries in high school biology.

At the time, my logical brain demanded clarity. Estuaries introduced too much ambiguity.

I accepted the idea of a flowy in-between state, neither freshwater nor saltwater. But still, I insisted upon a specific line of demarcation, where a river ends and the ocean begins.

I sought precision where it did not exist.

Eventually, as learned more, I understood that my attempt to define nonexistent borders missed the point entirely.

Instead of a distracting intermediate phase, this middle ground was, in fact, the main event. The dynamic conditions within the estuary create the most fruitful and robust areas of organic growth. It’s no secret that predators like eagles and osprey hang out here often.

Estuaries receive nutrients from rivers and the ocean, making them extremely fertile. These nutrients support the growth of phytoplankton, which forms the base of the food web and supports a diverse array of marine life.

Moreover, it’s worth noting that some of the earliest civilizations emerged alongside estuaries, including the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, the Nile Delta, and the Ganges Delta.

In hindsight, this all made sense. Nature requires a fair bit of messiness to thrive.

For the past year, I’ve worked at a co-working spot near the mouth of the Royal River. When I needed a break, I walked down the street and sat at a picnic table by the falls. From there, I’d take in the view and let my mind wander.

While watching the water crash down the falls, I felt a deeper connection to this place.

Of course, there’s the natural beauty of the estuary. But also, I feel drawn to its metaphor as an in-between state.

A month ago, I embarked on a new phase of my career. After two years at a startup, I left my role as part of a successful exit. Serving as COO of a startup was itself a dramatic change following more than 25 years in the highly structured world of financial services.

My professional identity has been abruptly thrust into the neutral zone.

William Bridges describes the term "neutral zone" in his book Transitions. This uncomfortable middle stage is where the old way has ended, but the new way has yet to solidify. It’s a time of uncertainty, where the path ahead isn’t always clear.

The neutral zone, though disorienting, is a crucial phase where real transformation happens. I know this to be true, having successfully navigated a career transition in early 2022.

This relatively recent experience helps a lot. It’s still difficult, scary, and stressful for all the obvious reasons, but this time I feel more prepared. I’ve been able to trust the process with confidence.

For example, this time, I’ve eagerly engaged with my network. I’ve enjoyed dozens of meetings and calls with friends, former colleagues, and mentors over the past few weeks. These honest conversations have been invaluable, which is hardly surprising.

Meetings like these can be fertile grounds for personal and professional growth, much like estuaries support biological growth.

In some of these conversations, I’ve shared my thoughts about investing in smaller multifamily properties that preserve naturally occurring affordable housing. With insightful feedback comes iteration.

As the details come together, I feel a deepening sense of purpose and direction.

While I’m eager to emerge from the “Neutral Zone” into what Bridges calls “The New Beginning,” a phase marked by renewed energy, purpose, and a sense of direction, I also recognize this process requires patience. Meaningful progress cannot be rushed.

So, for now, I remain open-minded about how this phase may evolve and what new destinations might appear.

As the waters of the Royal River blend into Casco Bay, they create a zone rich with potential. Like this estuary, my current transition is neither the end nor the beginning but a fertile middle ground where possibilities emerge. Embracing this 'Neutral Zone' allows for growth and transformation.

If you're facing a major transition, remember the estuary. Let the uncertainty nurture new opportunities, blending your past experiences with emerging possibilities. Trust the process and let this transitional space shape your future.

This is the magic of the in-between: where life's most vibrant growth and transformation happen.

Other Stuff

Apartment Leases in 2034: Longer Terms, Also Shorter In the future, apartment leases may become longer to provide tenants with more housing security. However, shorter-term lease options will also rise, especially for young renters in urban areas. Dan Cohen of NextStory Capital sees this natural evolution of lease terms as beneficial to renters, managers, and investors. I agree.

​Read the essay (9 mins)

How Might We Learn? Andy Matuschak explains how learning can be more effective when connected to real-life projects and interests. No surprise there. Then, he explains how an AI assistant can enhance results, guiding the learner by providing context, suggesting relevant resources, and offering feedback tailored to individual goals.

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​Read (or watch) the talk (22 mins)

Dr. James Hollis: How to Find Your True Purpose & Create Your Best Life In this Huberman Lab podcast episode, Dr. James Hollis, Ph.D., a Jungian psychoanalyst I've highlighted before, shares how early family dynamics and social context shape our behaviors. He explains how examining these patterns can lead to better choices and fulfillment.

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​Listen to the podcast (2 hours 40 mins)

Buying Freedom Peronsal finance blogger Jonathan Clements advises young adults to start working and saving early for financial freedom. But for adults older adults, he recommends a phased retirement with part-time work. Clements argues that while not necessary, working part-time in retirement can provide fulfillment and financial benefits.

​Read the article (3 mins)

And a Farewell Photo...