Change doesn't happen in one day. Whether it's switching to a new career or finding yourself in a significant relationship, or even something as simple as a new haircut, transformation is often a slow and gradual process propelled by bursts of evolution. We learn from our environment, our experiences, and from the people around us - all of which can be beneficial or harmful depending on the circumstances. And with each step forward or backward comes the question: Who am I?
It's not an easy answer, especially when faced with massive life changes. In those cases, the self may feel unrecognizable, not to mention overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe there was once a secure foundation we could stand on, but now that stability, that sense of self, has been destabilized and we don't know what to do next.
The challenge here is that if we don't heed warning and take necessary steps to protect our visual of self, then we risk losing sight of who we genuinely are and becoming someone that's unrecognizable to us. As humans, we have a tendency to naturally absorb the environment around us, in employment, relationships, and other aspects of our life. Without persevering and truly recognizing that it's still the same person beneath all of the change, the outcome often yields an image that's nowhere close to one's authentic self.
One of the best ways to stay true with change and not lose any part of oneself is to create a conscious effort to build a framework for self-recognition. This strategy requires us to look for constant reminders of who we are, why we hold the beliefs we have and why we make the choices that we make. These reminders encourage us to remain present amongst the chaos and remind us of the core essence of our being.
Maybe a scent takes you back to childhood memories, or a destination transports you to a totally different time and space. A great way to do this is to keep a journal nearby and make items such as art, music, or even symbolic objects. It doesn't have to be something tangible, it could even be mantras, affirmations, and poems to keep us centered and focused. These tangible visuals act as reminders whenever the journey gets tiresome or unnavigable.
Soothe your spirit with moments of before, so that you'll never wholly forget who you were and embrace who you're set to become. When facing transformation, there's no need to forget the past, instead focus on how it shaped you and how you're growing as a result of it. Take time to tap into that inner mindfulness and remember that change doesn't have to have a horrible repercussion - it can be a chance to let the beauty of vulnerability and emotion give clarity, to the future and those around you.
When the journey feels longer than expected, ask yourself why. Put a pause on your search and spend time getting in touch with what makes you, you. After a while within stillness, we come out of it a far more vibrant version of ourselves - an even more soul-filled being that lives in alignment with our purpose and passion. Reflection will always be our greatest teacher, never failing to reveal something new about the world, or about yourself. Find comfort in the bridge between where you started and where you're headed.
Don't worry if the road ahead is unknown, just make sure you don't forget to recognize who you are and own your power to shape the journey.
Recommended Comments
There are no comments to display.
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now