I’ve been feeling a bit vulnerable lately – identities, perspectives, habits, all seem to be in flux. Like a molting lobster, whose shell becomes too small and falls away, whose new exoskeleton is still forming. Feeling free of constriction and also fearful of real or imagined predators.

I learned about this lobster phenomenon from a wonderful professor, Dr. Ellie Drago-Severson. Informed by Robert Kegan’s model of adult development, she appreciated the dramatic vulnerability we humans feel as we move from one way of knowing to another – socializing to self-authoring for example, using the shell-less lobster as a metaphor.

In my work today, I am increasingly focused on how technology is changing our world and workplaces at a dizzying pace. Like a wild roller coaster ride. Unprecedented heights and terrifying drops. Given this dynamic, are we growing and molting more rapidly, thus spending more time between our hard shells, more time in greater vulnerability? And how do we cope with that if so?

Interestingly, when I looked for a video of a molting lobster (check this out), the very next thing You Tube offered was a Loving Kindness guided meditation!

Perhaps that’s the answer! And that took me back to Dr. Ellie. Without calling it “Metta” (loving kindness), she found so many simple, thoughtful ways to help us feel safe, supported, and connected: the check-in to show up as our true selves, the little candies and stickers on the table to encourage playfulness, and her signature “convenings” where the whole group would focus on helping each person work through a specific leadership challenge.

So how might we show up for ourselves and each other in these molting times?

• Normalize the Molt: Let’s name it for what it is – a lot of different and new sensations. Discomfort, disorientation, and delight are all a part of it. Let’s embrace this chance to feel so much.

• Tend the Tender Spots: In between shells, we’re more exposed — emotionally, mentally, even spiritually. It’s a time to offer ourselves and those around us extra kindness and care, not to “fix” but to understand.

• Play in the Process: Finding those little ways to bring lightness, curiosity, and joy into uncertain times. A funny meme, a playful inquiry, or simply making space for collective wisdom sharing.

With this, discovering that change doesn’t have to be lonely — it can be playful, creative, and communal. And perhaps, most importantly, to remember: We are all molting. Let’s be kind to ourselves and each other in the in-between.

Here’s to your staying brave and connected through the softer times!