“There are no mistakes. The events we bring upon ourselves, no matter how unpleasant, are necessary in order to learn what we need to learn; whatever steps we take they’re necessary to reach the places we’ve chosen to go.”
~ Richard Bach, The Bridge Across Forever: A True Love Story

 

 

 

 

When we notice a change within ourselves it offers growth, invites celebration and may bring some challenges.

Let’s look at each one of these:

Growth
As you go through a change you may observe many possibilities that invite you to learn more about yourself, release old patterns, spend more time the present moment and to notice the power of your mind and emotions. You may feel more alive, fulfilled and balanced. At the same time you may go through a roller coaster of thoughts and emotions as you look at your own shadow side.

It takes courage, compassion and patience to turn challenges in your life into opportunities of growth. By peeling off layers of conditioning, becoming aware of triggers caused by events in the past, becoming more mindful about your thoughts, words, emotions and actions you will show yourself and others more compassion, patience and kindness and allow your values to become your destiny.

 

Celebration
Feel the freedom that comes from being you, being authentic and connected to your inner wisdom. Enjoy the feeling of being in the flow, inviting in those amazing ideas that come to you, consciously feeling your breath and connecting to your breath in your yoga practice, celebrating the moment, sparked creativity, synchronicity, magic, joy and the happiness of following your heart.

As you appreciate every moment you will draw more wonderful occasions into your life. This is the time to start on turning your ideas into reality. Congratulate yourself for being so brave, committed and strong to go through this time of transition that supports you to emerge like a beautiful butterfly flying towards the life of your dreams.

 

Challenges
Family, coworkers and friends perceive a change in you and may feel uncomfortable with the ‘new you’. As you understand and respect your own needs, observe your words (e.g. refrain from gossip), spend more time in the present moment (instead of planning an event in future or reminiscing about the past), your change may be scary for others. They may have put a label on you (e.g. teacher, colleague, boss, daughter, mother, sister, etc.) and want the ‘former you’ back, but you are so more than just a label or definition.

Others may embrace your change and will be inspired by you. Some may need to understand on how they can support you better during your time of change and might like to learn more about what has been happening for you. As you are working on becoming a better person you may be confused by all these different reactions. Remember that everybody is on a different path in their lives and be aware that some of your relationships may even fall away.
Facing challenges and taking them as an opportunity to learn and grow is never easy but allows personal growth and helps you understand who you really are.

 

 

“When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back.”
~ Paulo Coelho, The Devil and Miss Prym

 

 

In next week’s post and part III of “Welcome Change” we will explore ways to help you through this time of transition.

Meanwhile no matter how big or small the change within yourself is, please know that every day offers you new opportunities to bring out the best in yourself and walk towards fulfilling your dreams.