This past year of my life has been full of tumultuous change and as a result, amazing growth. In the past I've feared change and avoided it at all costs, preferring what I perceived to be the safe haven of routine. But what I have learned is that change is inevitable, necessary and always ultimately good. Sometimes we have to go through a tremendous amount of pain or learn difficult lessons in order to recognize the good, but we are always smarter, stronger and more self-aware when all is said and done. I have gained insight throughout my recent growth experiences that I might not have otherwise. Perhaps these are things that others already knew, but I finally have my own personal clarity in these areas. Here are some of the things that I've learned:
When obsessing over external things that are out of your control, learn to turn your focus inward and become re-aligned with self.
To find joy in the unexpected. It's happening anyway--might as well embrace it.
You must be your own support and comforting presence. Self-soothe.
When obsessing over love and relationships remember: no one else can love you quite like you can love you.
Always follow your instincts. This is your inner guide, the realm of yourself that is most connected to Spirit. Its job is to protect you.
Even if you had to learn the lesson the hard way, the point is that you learned it. Celebrate.
When deciding to be the "good guy" in any situation, recognize that it is a full time job, not a temporary contract. You will most certainly be called upon to be just as gracious again and again. But don't worry, you can handle it.
Your breath is a divine gift and the key to maintaining your peace. Breathe deeply: as you inhale, bring positive thoughts and things into your consciousness; as you exhale, let go of all things negative, toxic and fearful.
Your body will acknowledge the things you won't admit to yourself (outward physical symptons of stress). Treat yourself well inwardly and your body will outwardly reflect it.
You can't be Superwoman, Wonder Mom or Domestic Diva all the time. It's okay (necessary even) to take a break now and then--relax, recharge, regroup and get back at it tomorrow.
There are always going to be bad days--and that's okay--because they help us to recognize and appreciate the really really good days. (The same goes for friends, men, jobs and wines.)
It is important to let go of expectations and desired outcomes, and to instead let life just work itself out. Dream, put in the effort and let the Universe do the rest. Even if things don't turn out the way you think you want them to, they will turn out for the best.
There's a difference between knowing these things and putting them into practice--the ability to live these lessons in every day situations, while the world around me is in chaos and threatening my peace, is what helps me to know growth and to feel more emotionally balanced. I hope some of the lessons I've learned can you help you through some of your life's changes as well.
Signed,
A work in progress.
5 comments:
I can identify with so many of the things that you have learned listed above. This year has definitely been a time for me to embrace a lot of change. I usually did it kicking and screaming because I didn't want anything to mess up the uncomfortable, but noticeable life I was living. I am so happy that I have learned to embrace it and grow. The growth over this past year has been amazing and I am thankful for it. I've lost a lot of so called friends, but I am so blessed that they are no longer in my life and I was able to learn that it was ok for that relationship to end. Self love and confidence was one of my biggest lessons so far this year. I lacked it, but I have grown so much in that aspect of things and it is wonderful when my friends notice the change because a lot of them have been with me through a lot of tough times. I apologize for going on, your post just brought up a lot of emotions and feelings in me this morning. I hope that you had a wonderful holiday and have a beautifully blessed day! Thanks again for such a wonderful blog.
Me too. When I think about all of the changes that went on in my life this past year, it really brings home the whole concept that your internal world reflects your external. As I grow, my external world changes and the people and things that threaten my peace and my balance have fallen to the side.
I still have so much to learn! But now instead of beating myself up for that, I equate life with learning and am learning how to just live without judging myself. And I feel so blessed to be able to welcome all of the change and when i'm having rough times to really know in my heart that wisdom and strength is on the other side of that pain.
Ahhh! I am so thankful. Peace and blessings! xoxo
Wow--well said by both of you ladies. It's not easy to live a life of self-love and confidence and to be free from judgement of self. It's not always simple to let go of people and things that are no longer good for us. But boy, what a relief when we finally are at the place where we can look back and say, "Hey, I learned something from that and look at me now!" I am proud of all of us!
I have learned many of these lessons, too, with all of the changes in my life this year.
I really appreciate your positive outlook.
Great reminder
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