Celebrating Growth

Growth is a funny thing. Physically, it happens from the moment we are conceived until the moment we exhale our last breath. And even in death we have the ability to contribute to the growth of fungus, soil, vegetation and more. Spiritually we move between levels of understanding of and communication with our higher selves or a divine being. Mentally, we go through stages of being. We are in constant discourse with ourselves, deciding what changes we want for ourselves, our satisfaction with ourselves and a lot more. But this idea of growth, although it spans each aspect of our lives, is unavoidable and almost necessary to our living a well rounded and purpose filled life. So why is it seem so difficult sometimes?

Growth is difficult because it involves changing. And most of us like to be comfortable. If a pregnant mother never had contractions, that little baby would stay put for a lifetime. Comfort, as wonderful as it is, has the potential to stunt our growth and keep us back from some pretty awesome achievements and opportunities. That’s why we have to regularly check in with ourselves to see if our comfort is acting negatively or positively. We don't have to be afraid of being uncomfortable.

Encouraging Growth
When you feel that urge to make changes for the better, it’s a good idea to listen to that little voice. Set your intention and your goal, and think about it in pieces. Sometimes a main goal can be overwhelming, but breaking it down into bite sized chunks makes getting there seem a lot more realistic. Now that you’ve got your path charted out, it’s time to get to work. As you hit these smaller goals pat yourself on the back, eat a cookie, take a trip, and share your accomplishments. It’s okay to celebrate your growth. Allow yourself to be your biggest fan. It’s okay to be proud of the inner work you are doing. And by sharing tidbits of your journey, you may be encouraging someone else.

Growth, although it seems like an individual experience, it is very much communal. As social beings we have an impact on one another. Sometimes our growth means putting distance between ourselves and other people to preserve our own spirits. Other times it means walking through new, exciting and sometimes scary doors. But it’s all in the name of self-acceptance, self-confidence and growth, because stagnation is not our friend. Our growth is bound to affect those around us, and that’s okay. It may be sad when family and friends can’t take the journey with us, but don’t despair, their path may cross yours again at another point. But you may be surprised at how many people you influence for the better and you begin to see the positive changes they're going through alongside you.

Growth Charts
This is a forever journey. Your growth is ever evolving, and celebrating the fact that you have outgrown who you were yesterday, last year or many years ago helps you to put things, relationships, the way you spend your time and energy, etc. into perspective. You can see just how much you have changed and how many new and exciting things have happened for you and your family. That’s where growth charts come in.

A growth chart can take on many different forms. It could be a journal that documents your thoughts, feelings and gratitude. It could be yearly vision board creation. You might have a calendar you jot little notes or affirmations on. Whatever medium you choose, it’s a good idea to keep track of where you’re going, so you can be reminded to celebrate your accomplishments. So get creative with the documentation of your journey, it can be a big help in facilitating your growth as well.

Remember, you are a dynamic being with all the resources you need to become the best version of you. And as you take steps toward fulfillment, growth, balance and happiness, honor yourself. You are worth it!