What is liberating about self-awareness can also feel profoundly soul-crushing. The relief of deciding you no longer want to be a certain way is accompanied by the painful realization that you were that version of yourself for a significant period, and that version may have inadvertently caused more harm than good—perhaps without your even realizing it. The desire for a better life becomes tinged with sorrow as you confront the truth: you’ve allowed yourself to exist in survival mode, settling for the bare minimum when you deserve so much more.
Feeling ready for change brings a sharp clarity, revealing just how rigid you’ve become in your habits and beliefs. It’s as if you’re awakening from a long slumber, and that awakening can be disorienting. The tension between wanting to evolve and acknowledging past choices can weigh heavily on your heart.
But I promise, as daunting as it feels, it’s worth wading through this discomfort. On the other side lies the clear, cool ocean of awareness that has been calling you, inviting you to dive deeper into your true self.
I share this not to frighten you, but to prepare you for the emotional journey ahead. It’s scary. It’s sad. It’s heavy. You may find yourself tangled in the pain of this process, but know that each knot you untangle brings you closer to a deeper understanding of who you are and who you can become. Embrace the discomfort; it is a crucial part of your transformation. The beauty and growth that await you on the other side make this journey not just worthwhile, but essential.