“You’ve changed.”
So many of us have heard this phrase before – and felt the negativity and disappointment that seems to accompany it. Within moments, our own fears of rejection start to take over, and our evolution in life stops.
But can’t change be good? Can’t finding a new mindset, skillset or interest help us grow?
The answers: Yes and yes.
Like the Earth, we all go through seasons of change. For example, winter represents a time of quiet, stillness and self-reflection, while spring represents a time of new growth and rejuvenation. But as poet Anne Bradstreet wrote, “If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.”
If you aren’t changing, you’re not growing. And if you’re not growing, you become irrelevant.
Just as the seasons change, we must allow ourselves the freedom and flexibility to do the same. Think about this scenario: It’s 15 degrees outside in the middle of winter. As you leave your home, do you put on a swimsuit? Of course not! You surrender to the change in seasons and put on warmer clothing like gloves and a coat.
But for the sake of this post, let’s say you DID walk outside in the swimsuit. Being misaligned – or in this case underdressed – for the season puts you at risk of hypothermia, extreme exhaustion and even disorientation. It also keeps you from reaching your greatest potential.
Don’t overstay your welcome in a season because you are comfortable. Embrace the transitions, and you’ll be on your way to living your best life!
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