“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” Steve Jobs, American businessman
How many times in your life have you faced and overcome challenges? How many times has fear made you feel small or less than? How many times have fear or self-doubt stopped you from moving forward? I ask these questions to bring into your consciousness the times that, in spite of being afraid to move forward or make choices, you have overcome the challenge. In other words, the times you’ve made choices with courage that are deep within you. Why has being courageous come up for me lately? Recently someone lovingly told me that I’m too accommodating! I’ve been wondering why I still do this. After some reflection I realize that there are situations in my life where I want to make everyone happy. I asked myself, “Am I afraid to disappoint them?” I realize that in some cases the answer is yes! Having become more aware of this I’m willing to make changes. I’m willing to be more courageous and follow my heart! For me, this is an evolving journey! How about you?
American activist Jody Williams has said that “If you’re always trying to please everybody around you, all you end up being is a pretzel, twisted into the shape of a pretzel. If you do that enough, you’ll end up not even knowing who you really are. So have the courage to be who you really are, no matter where you are.” I love this image of being twisted into the shape of a pretzel. It’s kind of extreme but sometimes being too accommodating feels like it! I admit that I’m getting better at expressing what works for me but I have to say I still have moments where it doesn’t feel great, especially when what works for me is different from others. I remind myself that it’s ok! Have you experienced this too?
It’s becoming easier to let people know what works for me. I’m getting better about creating healthy boundaries too. I’m no longer concerned or fearful about disappointing people if my choices are different. I realize that it’s more important not to disappoint myself! Where it’s possible I’m willing to compromise when decisions are ready to be made; however, I’m ok with having an opinion that’s different. Fear in its many forms can be paralyzing can’t it? South African anti-apartheid activist and politician Nelson Mandela has said that “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” I believe that within everyone is a well of courage that we can draw from once we identify what is the root of our fear. I invite you to draw upon this well as you navigate the week. Focus on your victories – the times where you’ve overcome your fears – the times where you followed your heart and intuition – the times where you were courageous!
I’m sending lots of love to each one of you and trust that your week will be filled with beauty, love, courage, and abundance!
I’m available by phone or Zoom for private coaching and channeled information sessions by appointment. To schedule please go to victoriabarna.com. I’m also available for in-person sessions. Please call Storm Wisdom (602)334-1204 to schedule.