You’re trying hard to move forward while carrying preconceptions, others’ expectations, the burden of perfectionism, the fear of failure and ridicule, self-doubt and the shame of being perceived as too much or not enough. You just want to be seen, heard, accepted and understood. You want to ensure that an error or a clumsy gesture won’t make you less lovable. Hence, you invest a lot of energy in upholding the image of someone who has it all figured out. But the truth is that no one does…
So, let this truth set you free and be you. Only then you will feel life is flowing for you. Only then you will feel lovable and fully embraced by those who matter. Especially by you.
Life is like a gust of wind. It’s a pity to waste it living it on a flat tire. So, go out there and be you. Live with the unshakable belief that you are worthy. Don’t empower others – parents, peers or partners – to hinder your spark. Don’t try to please; take courage and let yourself be seen. Take pride in who you are, while acknowledging you still have to grow. Take pride in your progress.
At the end of the day, there’s nothing more important than the smiles you smiled, the tears you cried, the souls you touched, the moments you lived authentically – expressing yourself openheartedly and full of love. And there is no love in pretending. There is no authenticity in fawning. There is no smile in reproval. There is no wisdom in being somebody you’re not. There is no celebration in living life’s “shoulds”.
Instead, turn your “woulds” into reality and honor yourself; with the energy and enthusiasm of a two-year old, yet with the boldness of the ageless soul who has finally understood why you’re here: to be unapologetically you.
Habit of Growth 