Reflections from week 21 of choosing to make self-care a priority this year.
There are many quotes on growth such as, “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you” or “If you are not growing you are dying.”
The concept of growth is a good one; however, it is sometimes hard for us to recognize our own growth. Growth is not always going to be overtly noticeable, but it does not mean that it is not happening. {READ: Stay encouraged.}
What I’m finding to be true is that growth is easier for me to track now that I am regularly journaling and regularly reviewing/tracking my progress on my goals. I now have a frame of reference or a benchmark to measure my growth. I am also finding that growth is like compound interest. If you do a little growth promoting activity each day (pray, meditate, read, write, listen to a podcast, learn/try something new, etc.) then you will grow at an increasing rate.
I am a solid believer in the pursuit of personal growth, development and evolution. One thing that I am learning is that growth can happen under a variety of circumstances.
I was listening to a message this week talking about growth. In order for plants to grow, they must start as a seed. The seed is covered in dirt. The seed is watered and given sun. The seed is getting all of it’s nutrients from its environment (in the dark). Once the seed is ready, it begins to surface above the ground. This former seed has now grown substantial roots underground to sustain it when wind or rain or other adverse external environmental factors come.
Let self-care be your seed. Plant it in your heart as something that is a priority in your life. Nurture it by making the time to get away and participate in activities that promote your wellbeing. When you are ready and rejuvenated, come back out into your environment stronger, better, more rooted, more grounded and ready to withstand your environment.
There is no limit as to how much you can grow when you practice self-care. Keep planting. Keep nurturing. Keep growing. Repeat.
Be well.
