Embarking on an journey of personal growth is a transformative experience that holds the promise of a more vibrant, fulfilled version of ourselves. However the path is rarely smooth let alone straight, if it was we might just be in the ‘Good Place’. The Good Place Season 3, explains the timeline of the afterlife as the Jeremy Bearimy timeline, I was reminded of it very recently and it seems perfect in this life too!
As we begin to change, various obstacles and challenges arise to test our resolve and resilience. I talked recently about understanding the chart legend, and how understanding the symbols on the chart can help us navigate this personal growth journey more efficiently, cope with emergency situations, have more environmental awareness of our surroundings and be better prepared. The key distinction I hope you took away from that post was symbols are indicative of what you expect to see not exactly what you will see.
There are some common obstructions, we all face as we embrace change. See if you identify with any or all from the list and read on to see how our compass rose can help us move forward:
- Fear of Failure
- Self-Doubt
- A lack of Patience
- Comparison Pressure
Fear of Failure
Fear of failure, sometimes dressed up as the fear of success, often holds us back from perusing our hopes and dreams. I was afraid to start this blog after numerous attempts in previous years. I was afraid to restart my exercise regime again because I believed I would just get injured and be worse off than when I started as had been the pattern of my past. I was scared to to be judged by the people in my life. Whether you are embarking on a new career, learning a new skill or making significant life and/or lifestyle changes, the fear can be paralysing. We need to look northwest, and focus on compassion as we recognise that that setbacks are a natural part of growth and provide valuable lessons for future endeavours. Sit a while and reflect freely on what you have learnt and how you can utilise this lesson as you continue on your journey. the combination of these 2 practices will empower you into action.
Self-Doubt
How often do you downplay a compliment when it is freely given and deserved? Not wanting to appear proud or be singled out. Dimming your light, instead of basking in the praise and acknowledgement. I am willing to guess, more often than “thank you” being your response. I say things like, “Just doing my job” or “it was no big deal” or “anyone could have one it“. Sound familiar? The simplest way to combat self doubt, is to look to the northeast, and replace the negativity with compassionate affirmations; “yet” might just be the key word you are looking for.
A Lack of Patience
When is the best time to plant a tree? 20 years ago! Just like the mighty oak, growth takes time, it goes through seasons, requires external inputs and there is expansion and retreat. Impatience to persist can lead to frustration and sometimes, abandonment of goals. Setting realistic and measurable goals into smaller manageable steps will allow you to anchor in the southeast, where you can celebrate your achievements and progress and implement a strategy to keep frustration at bay. Give yourself some grace. To establish where you are, take stock of your life here. It was my starting point years ago, and you will find as I did you easily shift to the north and begin again.
Comparison Pressure
Society, family, friends, even colleagues can exert significant pressure on you as you expand your horizons. You have a great life: a job most would kill for [figuratively speaking], wonderful people to call yours, a perfect home etc. etc. So why change, and why now? Deep down you know there is more and you are meant for more! It is essential to differentiate between external expectations and personal aspirations. Comparing yourself to anyone else is counter productive, they are not you, they do not have the same circumstances as you and they are not where you are. If you must compare yourself to anyone, look in the mirror and compare yourself to the you of yesterday, last week, last month, last year, you ten years ago! See how far you have come. Sit in the southwest of gratitude and reflection, you’ll be amazed what you have accomplished and be inspired to do it again.
Remember
Growth and vulnerability go hand in hand, in personal development. It is is choosing to acknowledge and confront all aspects of ourselves we may prefer to ignore. To be vulnerable is to be courageous. It opens the door to authentic connections and a deeper understanding of oneself. It is a strength, not a weakness! As you navigate your journey, know that like the weather it is changing, and dynamic, and should the fog close in, you need only pick a compass point to continue along your way.
I encourage you to confront your fears, be patient , silence the inner-critic and to look in the mirror with curiosity. I am still learning – everyday. This journey is voyage, an odyssey, and you are the hero of your story. The obstructions are not setbacks, they are your opportunities for refinement and growth, that lead to your transformation.
from the chart table, KAxx
Waypoint Creation 