The secret to growth
In our individualistic Old Happy culture, growth is something that's usually about me and me alone.
What do I want?
What habits and routines will I need to develop?
How will I make it happen?
How will this change affect me?
But here's the thing: growth is only possible because of other people. We've forgotten that love, care and support are not nice-to-haves; they are the must-haves that enable our individual growth.
From the time we're born, our relationships give us the foundation that facilitates our personal development. Babies and toddlers with loving caregivers feel safe enough to explore and try new things, knowing that they will be there waiting for them when they get back. That remains the case as we get older.
We still, and always will, need people, and the safety, support, and love that they can provide to us. It gives us the foundation, the bedrock, upon which we can build up and grow as individuals.
Look for people who love you no matter what, whether you win, lose, or draw. They cheer you on when you take on a challenge and cheer you up when a risk doesn't pan out. Their love for you is not contingent upon your growth: they remind you that you are worthy no matter what you do . In turn, be this person for others, knowing that with every act of love you're helping them to grow, too.
It turns out that, if you want to grow, nurturing your relationships may be the very best thing you can do. Care is not an afterthought; it's the center of everything.
Today, try this:
List out the people who make up your 'foundation.' Have you nurtured them this week? If not, set aside a few minutes to send a quick text or make a call, putting care first where it belongs.
