Nov 7
Written By Sheryl Shields
One day I realized I wasn’t happe, meaning I wasn’t processing my emotions. I was married, had two healthy kids I adored, did work that felt fulfilling, and lived in my dream house. Yet, something felt wrong and out of place. So I was drawn to several self-help books in search of the answer.
I found an innate desire to change my life. But, unfortunately, I didn’t want to. I wanted things to change on their own, but life rarely works like that. So I read more books and filled several journals. Once I was able to process my emotions I realized I needed to uproot my comfortable life for an even better one.
Have you ever felt lost and didn’t want to change? Yea, me too. Two years before I retired, I had a tumultuous evaluation. I was told my teaching sucked, and my student teacher was assigned to another teacher. I felt stuck and looked for a way out. I came across the phrase, “Bloom where you are planted,” and decided to do just that.
I formulated a plan to retire early during our holiday break, and I applied for a graduate program.
When I returned to work, I handed in my retirement letter and began graduate school the following week.
My last two years were stressful and amazing all at the same time. I was learning new things, and I loved it. Starting a new career while winding down an old one taught me the importance of listening to my body and pursuing work that brought me immense joy.
If you’re in a similar situation, here are three things you can do to start blooming where you are.
- Everyone needs sun. What parts of your life are sunny? Those are the things you love doing. These activities fill you up and give you a sense of accomplishment. On the flip side, what is causing you pain? Once you’re able to weed out the good from the not-so-good, you can begin doing more of what you love and less of what you don’t.
- Water keeps you alive. What parts of your life do you need to water. When and where are you the happiest? When you surround yourself with things and people, you love life is a whole lot sunnier. Why live an ordinary life when you can thrive, my friend.
- Change can be challenging, and there are times when you need to uproot your life. Moving for a new job, divorce, battling a life-threatening disease sucks. Yet, it’s a chance for you to do and be different. You get to grow in ways you never thought possible.
Every day brings a new opportunity for you to change and grow. If you’re stuck and need help, I’m here. Feel free to schedule a time to talk today.
Sheryl