Spring is the signal that change and growth are happening. The weather shifts from cold and dreary to moments of sunshine and warmth. Spring is synonymous with growth: Flowers bloom, animal and human babies are born, and the grass and leaves turn green again. Spring is a time for change, not just the weather and the new life starting, but also a time for reflection of what needs to change. For example, spring cleaning is a time to assess what is needed vs. what is not and what changes are needed around the house. Because the weather is warming and new life is blooming, it is a good time to rediscover our priorities for getting outside and focusing on what we want the rest of the year to be. If winter is a hibernation period, then spring is the awakening to what is needed and drives one to take action.
“If we don’t change, we don’t grow. If we don’t grow, we aren’t really living.” (Gail Sheehy)
It is important to reassess where you have been and where you would like to go. Sometimes we get stuck in the predictable and safe without realizing that our lives have now become stagnant. It is good to question what you want out of life and makes changes to see it happen. Growth happens when we step outside of the usual and challenge ourselves.
“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety.” (Abraham Maslow)
Change can be scary but if you want to grow and achieve the goals you have set for yourself, you have to step from the safe place of the known to the challenging new area of the unknown. Change and growth can seem less daunting if it is broken down into smaller steps vs. taking one big leap. Change and growth are a process, not a single act. Start with one small step, then take another and another until you have the life you want.
May this coming spring result in the change and growth you have been dreaming of. Keep in mind, one does not have to go on this journey alone. Seek advice, ask for help, build a team of support. The first step is yours, but you do not have to walk the path alone.
Michelle A. Culver, LMFT
