This past week, I've been grappling with a myriad of emotions, recognizing their complexity while caught between a body urging me to slow down and an overactive mind pushing me forward. I find myself in the limbo of a major life transition, my familiarity only rooted in what has been rather than what lies ahead. I'm simultaneously anticipating a new adventure and grieving the loss of the only way of life I've known. I worry about how I'll navigate such change, growth, and difference. As I reflect, I wonder if these thoughts could resonate beyond the context of impending motherhood. Nonetheless, it seems many of us struggle to sit with life's in-betweens—to pause, truly feel, and rest in them rather than feeling trapped, like we're itching to shed an uncomfortable sweater. As I contemplate the various aspects of life, I find myself asking what lessons they are meant to teach me, what meaning I am meant to derive from them. No matter what in-between you currently find yourself in, I encourage you to give yourself permission to honor and recognize that…
Not everyone will understand what you are going through. Grant yourself permission to be misunderstood and resist the urge to justify yourself in order to seek validation from others.
No matter how much pressure there is to stay informed or complete tasks, or to maintain a sense of productivity and value, grant yourself permission to pause and ask: Is this worth my peace? Does this conflict with my desire to feel safe and sane within my current circumstance?
No matter how small or subtle something may seem, grant yourself permission to let it be enough. Allow yourself to bask more in what truly matters to you in this season.
No matter how strong the pull to return to what is familiar or comfortable, grant yourself permission to summon the courage to look ahead into the unknown. Trust that you will discover yourself there. Understand that courage paves the way to confidence. It is courage that will guide us through life's uncertain transitions.
Find comfort in nature and in people who embrace you like a warm sweater, embrace activities that encourage you to slow down. Grant yourself permission to discover your anchors, those that steady you when the uncertainty feels like tumultuous waves rather than serene seas.
Similarly, establish boundaries and limits with anything or anyone unwilling or unable to meet you where you stand. Limit access to influences that fail to provide steadfast support, replacing fear and doubt with the courage needed to step boldly into the next chapter of your life.
No matter the challenge, no matter how long you need to rest in the midst of uncertainty, grant yourself permission to embrace the messiness and the unknown. Allow yourself to cultivate compassion and love for yourself, navigating through pain, joy, discomfort, and moments of clarity or confusion that may arise along the way.
Despite the opinions of the world, embrace yourself and recognize the strength in taking a pause, in dwelling in the in-between moments. No matter how strong the urge to hurry or flee, trust that in time, you will reach your next chapter with courage, wisdom, and peace.
Till next time,
Aimee Strange, LPCC 14132
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