Graceful Exits: Making the Case for Getting Good at Goodbye

by Geri Reid Suster

Offers advice on how to handle various exits in life, from death and loss, to firings and breakups with empathy and humor.

“Actually, Geri, it’s you. We have to let you go.” Hearing these words from my dear friend of more than 25 years over the phone on a sunny Friday afternoon left me shaking. It was a first for me – being at this end of a layoff. And it was a gut punch.

Being on the receiving end of a layoff, Geri Reid Suster pondered her next steps and had an epiphany – life is full of exits. From school, from jobs, from relationships, and ultimately from life itself. And those transitions can be rocky or they can be handled with grace, honor, and humor. Still, most people struggle with such endings, getting mired down in thoughts of failure, grief, frustration, regret, and anger. Here, Suster shows readers how they can do better, be better, and live better through all of life’s goodbyes.

Exits are going to happen whether we like it or not, so why not get good at them? How much time did you spend learning to walk, ride a bike, drive a car, and/or interview for a job? Why not spend a little time learning to approach exits with greater skill? An ugly exit not only leaves scars on everyone involved, but also adds to the psychological burden one carries long after the exit. On the other hand, a graceful exit is hard in the moment, but sets us up to feel lighter and healthier on the other side.

Direct and full of advice and suggestions for next steps forward, Suster guides readers through the ups and downs of goodbyes, and carefully reveals the best methods for a smoother, more graceful transition.

144 pages, Hardcover

First published November 11, 2022

Reviews

[Sara Goldenberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it!

[Jo Clancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Primer for Life! I was able to read this book entirely in one day, not just because it's a concise and easy read, but also because the subject matter was so compelling. I truly believe this is a book that everyone should read so that we can all get better at graceful exits, whether they are from relationships, jobs, or life. As I read the book I couldn't help but reminisce about many of my own exits (voluntary and otherwise), some of them not as graceful as I would hope and others a testament to my own personal desire to get better at communicating. I have already bought one as a gift for my sister and I'll be ordering more to give to others this Christmas. Worth every penny!

[Betty Rhoades · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to interview Geri as she was preparing for Graceful Exit's release, and our conversation was so fascinating that I knew I needed to read the book ASAP. When I say it delivered all that I was hoping for and more, it still doesn't capture how good it is. It is thoughtfully organized and beautifully written, and Geri's enormous heart is evident from the start. I think we all inherently know that we will experience many exits throughout the course of our life, but Geri's words help clarify the different types of exits, the importance of each, and the ways we can either muck 'em up or strive for better. I respect how Geri made a point to include personal stories - not all of them pretty - in the fabric of the book, as it enhances her already palpable credibility. During a time when massive tech layoffs are happening every other week, I can't help but think how all those professional exits could have been made more graceful with Geri's book in hand. Lastly, I listened to the audio version of the book, which Geri narrates, and her voice is like a warm hug - an added benefit when hearing about some of the toughest exits we will ever experience.

[Peter Sauerborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Graceful Exits: Making the Case for Getting Good at Goodbye was full of practical and inspirational advice about life's transitions that I wish I had known 20 years ago. I particularly enjoyed reading about how business leaders can become more mindful about transitions that impact people. It is presented with a thread of spirituality throughout and resonates with the mind and the heart. I highly recommend this book especially for the next generation of parents and business leaders.

[Cindi Hardesty · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this wasn't an easy book for me to read, I'm glad I did. I learned a lot not just about graceful exits in all walks of life but about myself and how hard it is to confront tough issues head on. I wish I'd read this book prior to losing my parents. Geri's words are comforting and helpful. Thank you!