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Article
Growing Pains
Here’s an example most everyone can relate to. Imagine that
you decide to begin an exercise program. Maybe you have some health
concerns, or have watched a weight loss challenge on TV. You’ve
made a decision, you’re motivated...you buy the sneakers, dust
off the gym membership, maybe even tape a picture of the “new
you” on your bathroom mirror. But after a little while, you
lose some steam; your muscles are sore, that snooze button in the
morning is awfully tempting, and you’re not seeing results
as fast as you want. Before you know it, the best laid plans have
fallen by the wayside.
Unfortunately, what most people fail to realize is that the resistance,
in this case the physical discomfort and negative self talk, is
what growth feels like. The discomfort is the growth. You want the resistance
to come to the surface because it becomes your choice point; it’s
when you get to look squarely at what’s blocked you in the
past and choose to move beyond it.
The same holds true in any situation where you want positive growth.
One client I worked with wanted to be able to network to expand her
business. In the process, she needed to deal with her sense of awkwardness
about meeting new people and her dread of public speaking. Another
couple desperately sought to deepen the communication in their marriage.
As a part of their journey, each had to confront fears of vulnerability
and safety in their relationship. Confusion, uncertainty, a sense
that the ground is shaky underneath you and you have no solid place
to stand—this is what the transition of growth can feel like.
Time and time again, life teaches you that the satisfaction of lasting
change comes only to those who have the courage to address whatever
has stood in their way in the past. Like a clogged drain that needs
to be cleared, ”the only way out is through.”
The good news? These growing pains don’t last. And soon—sooner
than you think—what once seemed like an insurmountable obstacle
becomes a new normal. And the rewards, the gratification—a
healthy body, a successful business, a loving, intimate relationship—those
are the things that can last a lifetime.
Until next time…
Be well!
Marina
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