Creating New Stages in Life

"What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself."

Abraham Maslow

It is challenging to change oneself if one does not know himself. As we move through stages of our lives, our interests and desires might shift. Dreams will not materialize if we do not acknowledge or invest our time and creativity into action. When a new opportunity presents itself, it is best to take advantage and explore.

We may be bored with our lovely selves and no longer have ways of highlighting our interests. This can lead to depression or abusive behaviors. With new eyes, look into the community to discover classes, groups, and volunteering to polish our skills.

We may feel silly if we express an interest in one of the arts. We may tell ourselves that our lack of skill may embarrass us. What if we try and succeed? What if the gain is meeting a new friend? There is significant chance that exposing ourselves to something new, our sense of worth will increase. Nothing to lose, and lots to gain! 

 

Childlike ...

 

"The most mature human beings are also childlike."

Abraham Maslow

With maturity comes an acceptance of who we are. We are less likely to project a false image or keep ourselves small. Childlike ways allow us to be comfortable in our own skin. We may experience things more deeply but take them less seriously. Laughter truly is the best medicine for the soul.

Engaging with grandchildren lifts our spirits, but not all of us have access to them or they too have grown old. There are numerous choices, however: blowing bubbles, walking barefoot through the grass or mindlessly coloring. Getting ice cream recalibrates numerous parts of our body, mind, and soul.

In day to day living, there are opportunities to interact with children, either in our neighborhood or outlying areas. We can volunteer our time or donate toys or clothes to area charities. We can give ourselves permission to be giving like that of a child ... freely without expected payback. 

Quiet Assessment

"In any given moment we have two options:

to step forward into growth or step back into safety."

Abraham Maslow 

We can live simply, but still be deliberate in our choices. As we read, observe others, and listen to conversations, helpful insights are gathered. We become more aware of our personal preferences and areas needing improvement or enhancement. By doing so, we create a greater sense of connection with ourselves and the world around us.

When allowed, the beauty of nature wraps around us. We may feel comforted or guided as though Mother Earth is holding us in loving care. As we move our body through the solitude of natural creation, the silence triggers our imagination. Our perspective can be softened, allowing for new insights to improve the depth of involvement. 

Acknowledging the value of our life, we begin to hold ourselves more accountable. We become aware of how our presence impacts others whether in a positive or negative manner. Our inner voice speaks a little louder and we become an aligned presence aware of emotions, reactions, and fears.   

 

Stepping Outside Of Safety

"One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth.

Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again."

Abraham Maslow

Gratitude fills me for the choice to resolve old issues prior to moving into the New Year. Although difficult to face challenges while the year is ending, fresh space is created to begin again. Fear has been minimized and confidence has gathered with a strong sense that this is truly going to be a good year.

My goal is to retain clarity in spite of my fears and to maintain flexible boundaries letting more goodness in while bracing against what seems questionable. An additional goal is to utilize the ability to pause when I am uncertain or overly confident. Slowly, one foot placed in front of the other still creates a healthy pace.

It is challenging to be vulnerable while knowing lessons are lurking in nooks and crannies. There is a deep sense within me wanting to acknowledge reality the way it presents and not viewed through false projections. Truly, I long to welcome this New Year with a clean slate, a willingness to learn, and the ability to be the brightest light I can possibly be.