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I chose this logo for my coaching site with great intention. I searched and searched for something that would reflect the growth I know we are all capable of, if we believe and make some intentional choices.
Intentional choices that can lead to positive changes.
This logo, to me, reflects a long journey from buried dormancy to intentional growth. A journey I've been on, and a journey you're invited into.
I don't necessarily like change. I wouldn't say I hate it, because I've had enough life experience to know that sometimes change can be good. But girl, I know the fear and anxiety that come with change, whether it's a change that's out of my control or a change that I have a voice in.
Oooooh, okay...so it's the fear and anxiety I don't really like. (See what happened there, when I took a moment to reflect...?)
When my kids became teens, I realized if I didn't change some things about myself before they left home, I was going to have some serious problems. As a homeschool mom, I had left my career, in part to raise and educate our kids. However, as they began to become more independent, I quickly realized that my role was transitioning, and rightfully so, into that of being more of a supportive encourager for my children, and less of a provider. That begged the question:
What would I do with all that time when they leave home?
I'm the type of person who weighs the pros and cons, down to the most minuscule detail, when trying to make a decision. I tend to overanalyze, which can lead to a ton of anxiety.
Yes, I'm the one who can't decide where to go for dinner.
But sometimes we just have to jump in and choose faith over fear (unless we're talking about sushi - I just can't).
In my reflection about my future as an empty-nester, I quickly decided that staying at home without the kids around would not be the best decision for me. I needed a focus, and heaven knows it's never going to be on keeping an immaculate house. I've come to terms with the fact that's not one of my spiritual gifts!
But I also felt a bit irrelevant when it came to reentering the world of work.
Okay, maybe a lot irrelevant.
It's amazing what can happen when you step out in faith. Just one tiny step is all it takes to start the momentum! Since I was still educating our kids, I didn't have the bandwidth to go back to earn a new degree, but I did find that other online learning options have exploded with opportunities in the last several years. Opportunities that I could do around my schedule and even on demand.
So, I signed up for an online class, made some new friends, and learned some cool stuff. And then I did it again. And again. Before I knew it, not only had I found something I was passionate about, but I had developed a network of supportive friends who want to walk this journey with me. Opportunities opened up where I least expected.
And, I began to feel better about myself.
Do you know the difference between change and transition? Change is the what that happens, but transition is the internal how. Transition is the process that begins before the change and continues after. Transition is part of the narrative we craft in our minds.
I began to believe some of those affirmations that we've been repeating to ourselves over the past few weeks. (If you're not, come back and click here after finishing this post and let's remind you of why you're so amazing). Not only that, but receiving affirmation from others who are on a similar path is so encouraging.
My friends, we don't have to sit in the status quo and just accept what life throws our way. If that's where you're camped out, it's time to pack up and move out!
We've discussed how the changing seasons can teach us to rest, reflect and rejuvenate. We've also learned how it's important to craft our thoughts into a narrative that supports our mental health. Today I want to combine what we've been working on for the past few weeks.
You're invited to enter into a time of reflection. Grab a journal or your note taking app, and consider these thought prompts:
Who are you at your most authentic self? What are your gifts, strengths, personality, and values? Once you have in mind that picture of who you are at your core, take a step back to view how all these wonderful things about you are a unique combination to offer as a gift to the world. Reflect and journal your thoughts.
Now, with that clearer picture of your authentic self, what narrative will you craft as your thoughts transition around a change in your life? Think of a change you are experiencing or facing and write out a response that reflects a positive growth mindset.
These questions are just to get you started. You're not alone, and sometimes it helps to get out of our own head and process our thoughts with someone else. If that's you, I'd love to connect and start a conversation about how you can embrace your authenticity.
Have a blessed and beautiful week!
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