A few weeks ago, I had a career decision to make. I could stay in my same schedule and routine, playing life safe and in my comfort zone. Or, I could let go of some responsibilities that were no longer in line with my vision, shake life up a bit and take a risk. Oh boy, did I hit a paralysis analysis frenzy while making this choice. I kept weighing the pros and cons, using coaching techniques on myself, and I felt so stuck, until my own coach said to me: “Wade, what’s the bigger picture here?”
If I were to make a choice, which choice would lead me to my bigger picture? BAM. This magical, simple, pure question brought me so much awareness and clarity (this is why I LOVEEE coaching!). My logical mind wanting to keep me safe and out of “danger’s way” by sticking with what I know. But I needed to listen to my heart- and soul- goals. I knew it was time for me to let go of certain responsibilities and make space for what I truly wanted to step into. When I realized I was taking a step towards my actual, big picture goal, the risk didn’t feel so scary. Instead, it felt good and so right. Letting go of the comfort, familiarity, and routine helped open so much space for me. And when I made space, that was when the good shit starting flowing in.
As humans, we sometimes hold on too tightly to our roles because we think our label alone defines our value and identity. Letting go of a job title, parting ways from a particular friend group, breaking up with a boyfriend/girlfriend or even moving cities feels scary. When we let go of something, we aren’t entirely sure who we are or who we will be without it.
This is a completely normal feeling for humans. Seth Godin, an author and entrepreneur writes, “Discomfort brings engagement and change. Discomfort means you're doing something that others were unlikely to do, because they're hiding out in the comfortable zone. When your uncomfortable actions lead to success, the organization rewards you and brings you back for more.” Instead of viewing the letting-go and discomfort as a negative experience, one that calls for panic and the desire to white-knuckle-life even more, I want to welcome you to think about what space you are creating. Celebrate the unknown and potential for growth!
Growth reminds me of one of my favorite childhood stories: The Story of Imelda, Who Was Small. Essentially, Imelda was so small she had to sleep in a shoebox until (spoiler alert) someone recommended she sleep in a big girl’s bed so she would actually have room to grow. This “big girl’s bed” was scary and overwhelming at first, but Imelda finally grew into the bed and now lives happily ever after! Creating space and having some extra room in your life opens doors for new opportunities and the process helps someone truly grow into their own skin. Spring is just right around the corner. What space do you want to create so that you can let some pretty beautiful things grow?
Feeling stuck on what your bigger picture is? I got your back. Coaching is one great way to start taking charge of your life.