A few months ago, in the midst of promoting my first book, navigating graduate school, and trying to stay sane, I found myself gravitating towards self-reflection. Within the course of a single day, I was balancing the roles of five different people (maybe more). I expected the time to be exhilarating and fulfilling; however, it was quite the opposite. I hit a wall of exhaustion and felt lost within a sea of identities. And so I began reflecting on my life – who I am, what I want/need. I quickly learned that the answers were not neatly packaged awaiting my arrival. I became frustrated. I was ready to focus on “me,” but the process was not (and is not) simple. That was the hardest realization for me. Yet, I was determined (and remain determined) to continue on this road and begin my hardest class yet, Me101.
With the help of Jenn Lee, I focused on turning the process into a positive, creative, and FUN endeavor! At the beginning of the journey, I wrote a simple note in my journal to kick off the self-growth process. I’ve shared an excerpt below and hope you can connect with it in some way. Moving forward is exciting; however, this excitement often clouds our ability to anticipate hurdles along the way. Anticipating challenges rather than perfect conditions builds inner strength. Living a life you love depends on this strength. During any journey, never underestimate the power of you.
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“I am planting a new seed in the ground – a seed that will bloom in a beautiful rose. There will be rain and windy weather, but this seed will bloom regardless of external forces. I will be nurturing and patient. Fresh droplets of water will fill the sprouting bud with strength and perseverance. And it will bloom into a beautiful rose. Growth is a constant…. This time is for me. I must love myself, believe in myself, and trust myself. I am creating my own life book. This is my life. I am going to live it according to my own path and my own expectations – not according to the expectations of others. Today, I am creating a new beginning!”
{image: GabrielleKai}
