THEJOURNEYOF SELF-DISCOVERY ANDGROWTH

When we think of transformation, if we’re not accustomed to thinking about evolving as a person, it can sound a bit like “Lost In Space”. However, transformation is as natural a part of life, just as birthdays are. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul compared himself to a runner, because life is like a marathon. The race starts with training. Athletes train, they follow strict discipline, they invest in their growth as a runner. They cannot win the race unless they improve. So, it is with life. Life should be a constant progression of growth.

However, if we become stagnant, which most of us do at one time or another, we then need transformation. When we think of transformation, if we’re not accustomed to thinking about evolving as a person, it can sound a bit like “Lost In Space”. However, transformation is as natural a part of life, just as birthdays are. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul compared himself to a runner, because life is like a marathon.

THE JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY AND GROWTH cont'd

The race starts with training. Athletes train, they follow strict discipline, they invest in their growth as a runner. They cannot win the race unless they improve. So, it is with life. Life should be a constant progression of growth. However, if we become stagnant, which most of us do at one time or another, we then need transformation.

Transformation is a journey of selfdiscovery and growth. Self-discovery can be scary if we haven’t been honest with ourselves or others about our feelings. When we don’t operate from a place of authenticity, the result can be mental and emotional burnout.

When we approach transformation, it involves our mind and our lifestyle.

They need to be in alignment with each other. Our lifestyle is our brand, and it must be authentic for people to view us as credible. Who we are in private is who we should be in public and vice versa. Not only is it hard to keep up a front, but it’s also stressful. We can’t have any true peace if we’re not living authentically. That’s why at some point, transformation must come.

Why is it that we stay stuck in our struggles so long? There are many reasons, but I’ll name a few. Negative self-talk, comparison to others, perfectionism, fear of failure, difficulty setting boundaries for ourselves and others, guilt and shame, imposter syndrome, difficulty forgiving, difficulty letting go of past experiences and the fear of missing out, just to name a few.

I believe the inability to see the possibilities in our future allows us to stay stuck in the wilderness much longer than necessary. We must cultivate pathways to transformation.

Anything is possible if you can believe it’s possible. However, we must also do the work. Neither one works without the other. GOD says He’ll prosper what we put our hand to. That means we’ve got some work to do. Some things we can do on our journey to transformation are as follows. This is not a comprehensive list because there’s not enough space to list them here. However, they will give us a running start in our race for transformation.

We must start by becoming aware of our thoughts and feelings. We need to practice self-reflection and introspection, paying attention to what goes through our mind, especially when we face challenges or obstacles. Where did that feeling come from?

We must set goals for personal growth and keep a journal to track our progress. Writing down our thoughts and feelings will help us reflect and keep track of our progress over time.

We must set goals for personal growth and keep a journal to track our progress.

Writing down our thoughts and feelings will help us reflect and keep track of our progress over time. Cultivating a positive mindset and attitude and refusing to make negative statements concerning ourselves will keep conversations positive.

We must define our values and beliefs and make sure our life is in alignment with them. People pick up on inauthentic lifestyles and language. It’s a detractor.

Cultivating self-discipline and hold ourselves accountable for our actions. Practice gratitude for the good things in your life.

Develop the habit of cultivating a growth mindset and embracing change as an opportunity for growth.

Practice self-compassion and let go of perfectionism.

Seek help and support when needed to work through past traumas and emotional baggage.

As you embark on your journey, remember to be kind to yourself and show yourself some grace. Congratulate yourself for taking the steps to make a positive change, as you take charge of the path ahead. The race is not won by the person who runs the fastest, but by the one to stays on the journey until the end. So, hang in there. I have confidence in you and believe you will cross the finish line.