Embracing Life's Transitions: Finding Purpose Beyond Expectations
In Ernest Hemingway's "The Sun Also Rises," there's a profound quote that resonates with many of us navigating life's changes: "How did you go bankrupt? Gradually, then suddenly." This sentiment perfectly captures how transformation often works—subtle shifts that eventually lead to profound change.
The Gradual, Then Sudden Nature of Personal Evolution
As I approach my 40s, I've been deeply immersed in a period of intentional transformation. The last six months have been a journey of self-discovery and purposeful change:
Getting an undercut and cutting my hair short
Adding a meaningful tattoo
Embracing physical challenges through strength training and boxing
Launching my coaching business
Setting ambitious personal goals (like reading 150 books this year)
Investing in my own growth by hiring a coach and consulting a dietitian
Exploring new career directions, including MBA studies and certifications in workplace mediation and artificial intelligence
Each of these choices represents a step toward embracing who I truly am, rather than who I thought I needed to be. This is the essence of authentic growth—releasing others' expectations and anchoring yourself in your own truth.
Purpose as a Tapestry of Small Moments
We often mistake purpose for a single, grand revelation that should illuminate our entire existence. But as "The Happiness Lab" podcast wisely suggests, purpose can be found in "little moments of joy." It's woven through:
How we show up for ourselves daily
The way we listen and connect with others
Our commitment to caring for our mind and body
Small acts of kindness and thoughtfulness
Even regret can become a catalyst for purpose when we use it as a compass rather than an anchor. A life review isn't just about looking backward—it's about charting your course forward with newfound clarity.
Reclaiming Your Most Valuable Resources: Time and Attention
In today's hyperconnected world, our attention has become a commodity. As Mel Robbins points out, the modern economy profits from our distraction through mindless scrolling and constant connectivity.
By turning my phone to grayscale—a simple change that reduced my screen time by nearly an hour daily—I've reclaimed precious time for deeper thinking and authentic connection. Our devices should be tools that serve us, not masters that command our attention.
The Power of Embracing Discomfort and Authenticity
Personal growth requires owning both our comfortable and uncomfortable strengths. It means sitting in what one coach calls the "gumbo of emotion"—staying with difficult feelings long enough to process and understand them rather than avoiding discomfort.
According to "Hidden Brain," approximately 61% of people engage in "covering"—hiding aspects of themselves to conform to societal expectations. This constant masking is exhausting and prevents genuine transformation. True growth happens when we stop filtering our authentic selves to meet others' expectations.
Why Coaching Makes the Difference
The journey of self-discovery and personal transformation doesn't have to be traveled alone. As a coach, I don't claim to have all the answers—but I do have the questions that will help you find your own. My role is to:
Create a safe space for exploration and vulnerability
Ask powerful questions that spark insight
Help you identify patterns that may be holding you back
Support you in creating actionable steps toward meaningful change
Celebrate your progress and hold you accountable
Your Invitation to Transformation
Life's transitions—whether approaching a new decade, changing careers, or simply seeking more fulfillment—provide perfect opportunities for intentional growth. If you're standing at a crossroads, questioning what's next, or feeling the gradual shift of transformation beginning to take hold, I'd love to walk alongside you.
Coaching isn't about having someone else define your path—it's about having a partner who helps you clear away the noise so you can hear your own wisdom more clearly. Together, we can explore what it means for you to shed expectations and embrace your authentic self.
Are you ready to step into your next chapter with purpose and clarity? Let's start the conversation. Reach out for a complimentary session to discover how coaching can support your journey of transformation.
