This past week, I had a moment where I looked up and realized that I was living in the next version of myself. It is a new space, a new season that requires me to behave, communicate, handle situations, and move differently than I would have in the past. Witnessing my growth in real-time is as beautiful as the fall foliage. I really do love it here.
As Fall is settling in, I can’t help but think of all the lessons this season can teach us about transformation and growth. When I think of fall, I always think of new beginnings. School always starts in the fall; my birthday is in Sept, signifying a new year. Fall is really the season of change; it gently encourages us to let go, embrace resilience in transition, and reap the harvest of self-reflection. It’s a season of shedding…
The Beauty of Letting Go:
The leaves turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow might be one of my favorite parts. I am actually trying to figure out a weekend to take a long drive and see the foliage, one of the advantages of being in the South :) But anyway, we are reminded of the beauty in letting go. Just as the trees shed their leaves, we, too, must release what no longer serves us. Old habits, limiting beliefs, and negative thought patterns are like dead leaves, weighing us down and preventing us from moving forward. This season urges us to create space for new growth, just as the trees prepare for winter’s rest. It’s through letting go that we create room for new opportunities and experiences to take root.
So, I ask myself, what do I need to let go of? What do you need to let go of? Perhaps it’s the job that no longer fulfills you, the relationship that is no longer nurturing, or the friendship that has run its course. Maybe it’s the doubt and fear that have held you back or the habits that have become roadblocks on your journey. Letting go is not always easy, but it’s necessary for growth. In this season, it's really Me vs. Me!
Resilience in Transition:
Autumn reminds us of nature’s resilience in the face of change. The trees stand strong and unwavering as they face the winds of transformation, trusting in their inner strength to weather the storm and knowing that they will bloom anew when the time is right. In the past, I used to let situations get the best of me. I would doubt myself instead of trusting that each challenge, just like the changing seasons, would teach me a valuable lesson and leave me stronger.
Now, I’ve learned to shift my perspective. Instead of allowing negative situations to get me down, I look for lessons and opportunities to grow. It’s not always easy, and the lessons might not always be pretty, but they are valuable. I have discovered that my inner resilience is a source of courage and grace during life’s transitions.
The Harvest of Self-Reflection:
As we move deeper into autumn, we also enter the harvest season, where the fruits of our labor become apparent. It’s a time for self-reflection, a chance to assess the progress we’ve made on our personal growth journey throughout the year. What have we learned, and how have we changed? What can we carry forward, and what should we leave behind?
This October marks three years since I made my move to the South. It’s a full-circle moment, and there’s so much to reflect on. The journey has been filled with both challenges and growth, and it’s a testament to the transformations that can occur when we embrace the seasons of change in our lives.
In the midst of fall’s breathtaking beauty, I find solace and inspiration. Just as the trees let go of their leaves and remain resilient, I, too, am learning to shed what no longer serves me and face life’s transitions with courage and grace as I get to learn this new version of myself. It’s a season of growth, and I am grateful for the lessons it offers.
Until next time,
Monique
