Then and Now Part II
Last week I started to share my reflections on my Then and Now progress. Previously, I struggled to identify my unhealed areas of my life, but now I am more open to addressing them. I used to concentrate solely on one aspect of my life, often neglecting others. For example, I might do my yoga practice, but avoid healthy eating, or looking at my financial statements regularly. I might connect with a friend, but not keep up with others. Today, my goal is holistic growth across all areas. My health consciousness has significantly improved, and I have learned to appreciate the process rather than obsess over outcomes. I can appreciate effort, and notice the energy that it creates energy, rather than exhausting myself with “it is not enough” self criticism.
Understanding that enjoying the journey leads to favorable results has been liberating. I have released my attachment to specific outcomes and the stress that accompanied them. I focus on what I ought to do, and with that, I have moved toward the life that I want. I have lost weight, increased my savings, met new people, started a business, found blogging, met new and amazing people, and so much more!
I used to rigidly adhere to timelines, but I have become more adaptable. This flexibility doesn’t equate to procrastination; rather, it emphasizes the importance of my overall well-being. If I am not at my best, I cannot offer my best to others. If I am exhausted, I can’t be creative nor can I work efficiently. I used to complain when I was tired, now I rest. I once viewed taking breaks as a waste of time, and days off were out of the question. I often pushed myself to the brink of burnout. Now, I recognize that sacred rest is essential for replenishing my energy, and doing tasks that are aligned with my energy creates more time and energy to accomplish more than I ever did before. Are there areas of your life that are depleting you and stealing from what you truly want and desire?
True growth occurs when we turn inward and reflect on where we were and where we are going. Change is the only constant, and resisting it can lead to further disconnection from ourselves. I now see that every change in life serves a greater purpose. Remaining closed off only leads to missed opportunities. I have learned that overcoming challenges transforms us into our own heroes. We can learn to rely on ourselves to support ourselves and meet our needs. Self care and self reflection helps us realize who we aspire to become.
3 years ago, on the brink of a major change, I was overwhelmed, scared, blocked and played small. My health and well being took a back seat to my highest self and true values. My point? Sometimes, even when you are doing what you ought to do, you may not see or feel the changes you want to see. They happen slowly, incrementally, and sometimes they are ubiquitous. With that said, stick with them. Do what you ought to do to move in the direction you want to go. Change will happen.
Grateful to have this chance to redefine myself, pursue joy, get into some of the best shape of my life, deepen my connection to others and increase my joy, I encourage you to look at your Then and Now. What has changed for you? Where were you, who were you, what were you like? What have you let go of? What have you picked up that is in your highest good?
