Have you ever noticed how many opinions and comparisons, and how much commentary and judgment the world continually offers? Against a chorus of external noise, it's crucial to stay true to yourself by embracing who you actually are, becoming your own 'north star' and celebrating all the things it means to be you...
Have you ever found yourself caught in the trap of comparing your progress to that of others? Wanted what (you think) someone else has? Become preoccupied by (your perception of) what other people think? Or simply been influenced to follow a path that is not authentically your own?
Crossing into the lanes of other people's lives can lead you away from your authentic 'north star'. (The inner guidance system that you have inside you, the one that instinctively knows what is right for you). The influence of others can throw you off, make you question yourself and steer you away from the aspects of your life that could bring the greatest strength and inspiration.
There is also the chance that some influence, advice or well-meaning opinions may be unhelpful, or even harmful... Comparing your "inside" to someone else's "outside" can be a fast track to despair. Luckily, it's a practice that you can change.
The key to staying in your own lane lies in mastering the art of selectively filtering out the extraneous, external noise and checking in regularly with the greatest expert on you that has ever existed... you!
Embracing self-discovery
Take some time to get to know YOU. What you stand for, what you're specifically built for.
When are you happiest? What makes you most proud about yourself? What parts of your life bring you the most enjoyment? What have you noticed about your life that is unique, awesome and significant?
Focus on your physical body for a moment. What specific needs does it have? How can you get back in touch with it to self-soothe and then attend to deeper thoughts and feelings as they arise? (Counselling can help you to learn how to do this).
When you invest time in understanding your individual strengths, gifts, dreams and personal values, you build a solid foundation of self-compassion. By understanding and accepting your uniqueness (and even befriending it), you become less susceptible to the external 'push-pull' and more attuned to what matters the most.
Self-compassion = your secret weapon
The many versions of you that have existed and will exist, know and understand you well. Consider listening to those versions of you, particularly their encouragement and kindness. It may be helpful to consult with these versions of yourself to draw from the deep wisdom, learning and knowledge you already have.
When you feel tempted by comparison, influence or the "shoulds" of others, refocus instead on figuring out what you need the most in this moment. What are you avoiding internally by focusing externally and how can you attend to your needs fully and compassionately?
Cultivating gratitude
Gratitude is a potent grounding technique.
By reflecting on gratitude each day, you can shift your focus from what's wrong to what you already have. Take a moment to reflect on the gifts in your life, whether it's your health, relationships, sweet moments and memories, observations, new learning or personal achievements.
Gratitude not only fosters a growth mindset but also reminds you of the richness that already exists in your life - making the lives, opinions and commentary of others less relevant or impactful.
Setting boundaries
Learning to set boundaries is a crucial aspect of staying in your own lane. Whether it's limiting your exposure to negative influences or establishing clear boundaries with individuals who bring toxicity into your life, creating space to thrive is essential.
Remember, it's always okay to prioritize your well-being and distance yourself from situations or people that threaten your peace of mind.
Celebrating your wins
No matter how big or small, celebrating each achievement is an essential practice for cultivating self-appreciation.
Acknowledge your wins, however insignificant they may seem, and take pride in the progress you've made. By shifting your focus to your accomplishments, you build a sense of confidence and resilience that will propel you forward in life.
Conclusion
In a world where negativity can lurk around every corner, staying in your own lane is an integral act of self-love and empowerment. It's a mindset that keeps you progressing towards a genuinely authentic and truly satisfying life. It may also be a hidden weapon that allows you to overcome the pressures, challenges and barriers that will inevitably pop up.
By focusing on self, filtering out external noise, and embracing gratitude and self-discovery, you can enjoy a more blissful, fulfilling and secure life journey. So, remember to stay true to yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and venture boldly along the path that is uniquely yours. The road may be winding, but the destination is yours to create!
Carolyn xx
Learn more about counselling here: www.talktocarolyn.com
Read more blog posts here: www.talktocarolyn.com.au/blog
Visit Carolyn's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/counsellingbycarolyn
Book in for assistance here.
留言