Growth is messy

We all assume we are growing on the days when we are on top of our work emails, project deadlines,10K steps, gym routine, and daily chores. However, real growth occurs on the days when it least feels like it. It occurs when we are down with low energy, piled up work, have no motivation to even step out to wear our running shoes, and dishes in the sink seem like a task to be postponed till tomorrow. It is on those days when our mental health takes a toll.

 

Growth starts where motivation ends, and discipline comes to the forefront. When, irrespective of our mood, fatigue, circumstances, energy level, and motivation, we show up to the best of our ability. It looks like we are not doing enough, and life feels messed up. But in reality, it is on those days that actual growth takes place. It is on those messy, hard, and slow days that we build discipline.

 

Adversities are a gift which provide opportunity to grow. They act as a compass directing us out of our comfort zone. Because no matter how cozy the bed is on the chilly morning, it is stepping out and getting an early start for the day is going to build the dream life. Not getting an extra hour of sleep, because let’s be honest, we can’t get enough sleep ever. It is outside of the comfort zone that real growth starts. It is directly proportional to the speed at which we run towards our fears and outside of our comfort zones, we grow to become the version we always dream of. Because that version is planted within us for a “reason”. Not just for aesthetic vision boards or goal setting. But actually working towards them, no matter how tough or messy it gets, which it will for sure.

 

You also must have noticed that those years of endless grind, no “visible” progress, consecutive failures, and the peak feeling of “left behind”, we actually grow. It is those years of extreme discomfort in mind and body that we grow out of our comfort zone. We might not see that during those hardships in our lives, but looking back now, we realize that time was not a mere “failure”. It is because those tough years build the foundation of your dream life. These years of no visible success lead to more growth and character development than “successful years”. This grind makes you the person deserving and able to handle the life you aspire to create. Thus, I just want to conclude that the tough time is preparing you for the life you are wishing for.