Growth is change and change causes discomfort but staying stagnant may cause even more pain even though it may feel like comfortable pain. It is a place we know, so we feel okay staying there even though it can be so incredibly painful. Finding ways to respond and work through the discomfort is imperative to growing and changing in ways we want to change or grow. I have noticed a pattern emerge when I’m working through new challenges or the discomfort of change and growth. It is a little process for growth consisting of Curiosity, Courage, and Compassion.

It takes courage to lean in to our trauma, scars, fear, and discomfort and work through the healing. It takes courage to hold hope that things can and will change. Many of us want to avoid fear, get rid of fear and be fearless. However, we cannot experience courage, growth or change without fear.

Courage often happens in the small moments just before taking an action in everyday life. We can practice ways to build our courage to be prepared for more difficult situations. The courage is within, it just needs a little help to stoke the fire.

Creating an intentional practice of smiling can help you experience the benefits more often. There are simple steps we can take to incorporate more smiling into our lives. 

When fear feels threatened, it gets creative hiding in new emotions. I spent the last few weeks confused by various emotions, but I finally realized through reflection, meditation, and journaling that fear was the root of them all. Now I must shine light on it, so I can move forward.

It was a rough week. I hesitated to discuss it here, but we must overcome the fear, shame, and judgement regarding mental health and wellness to heal. Let's start with kindness and compassion rather than fear.