Following Your Heart - Even When It Feels Uncomfortable
Hello, can you believe it's February all ready?
This month I ask; have you ever known change was necessary but felt uncertain or uncomfortable about how to move forward? This is a topic close to my heart, as I’ve been there myself and supported many clients caught between the pressure, fear and the discomfort of growth.
If you follow Chinese astrology, we welcomed in the Year of the Snake last Wednesday. Now, without getting all “woo-woo” on you, this year carries a strong energy of shedding the old and stepping up into new spaces.
Growth isn’t always easy; at times, it can feel uncomfortable and even painful and so, I thought I’d highlight the topic in the hope of breaking down some of the barriers. Whilst we often celebrate the courage it takes to create change; we often overlook or avoid discussing the discomfort that comes with it. We need to normalise this, to say to each other, I get you, it’s not easy, but it doesn’t have to be hard and it’s going to be ok.
The Year of the Snake carries a powerful momentum for transmutation. Shedding old layers can be liberating, yet it’s rarely smooth, it can stir resistance and uncertainty. Like a snake outgrowing its skin, true renewal requires releasing what no longer fits, even when the process feels tight, uncomfortable or unfamiliar.
As the snake seeks a narrow space to shed its restrictive skin, we too must navigate the discomfort of change with awareness and trust. Growth isn’t just about the transformation itself but about moving through the messy, in-between moments that help to shape us.
If you feel the pull to change but find yourself wrestling with uncertainty or discomfort, here are some ways I help myself and my clients determine whether the pain of growth aligns with the desired outcome.
1. Give it time: I am a believer that confusion needs time and space. If you find yourself having an inner constant tug of war between head and heart, wait, “marinate,” feel into how the decision makes you feel in your body and emotions.
2. Write it Out: Instead of pros and cons, list why you feel drawn to create the change and explore what holds you back or makes you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about it. Clarity will come from the reflection.
3. Confide in someone who gets you: Talk to someone who truly listens, the person that can hold space for you without trying to solve your life. Be clear if you want their opinion or just need to air your thoughts, this helps them and gives clear boundaries as to what you are seeking.
4. Marinate again: Once you feel your decision is clear, give yourself time to settle into the idea as it’s important to ensure your nervous system is ready, you truly feel confident in your decision and that no “middle of the night thought ghosts” are waiting in the shadows to keep you awake.
5. Move Forward: When you feel ready, even if a little nervous, take the next step, not a leap, but one step towards making your decision a reality, do so with trust in yourself and your ability.
6. Be Proud: Often, we forget to pause, smile and truly celebrate how far we’ve come, an essential part of growth. Once acknowledged, we can look ahead with excitement, embracing the possibilities we create by continuing to evolve, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Growth and change are known by many names, they aren’t always easy, but when you approach it with intention, support and self-awareness, it doesn’t have to be hard and it becomes a powerful path to embodying true freedom.
I’d love to hear, does this topic resonates with you? What small steps can you make for your dream to become your reality.
May your month ahead be one that flows with ease and grace.
Alli
xo