Seasons of Growth: When to Release and Renew

Seasons were one of the earliest indicators that time was passing for ancient civilizations, serving as a beautiful marker of our journey through the year. When Autumn arrives, it’s time to pack away the bikinis and white pants, embracing cozy cardigans and a fresh pair of UGGs. As Spring emerges, we shed layers, reveling in bright colors and the freedom of skirts. Seasons remind us that life moves forward, urging us to shed the old to make room for the new—much like the personal growth we experience as we transition into different phases of our lives.

As women, we also navigate metaphorical seasons. These may involve periods of intense focus, like pursuing a degree or a promotion, or seasons of sadness, where we grapple with confusion about our next steps, our true desires, and our identities. We experience relational seasons, where certain people enter our lives for a time and serve a purpose. However, unlike the climate changes that signal the arrival of a new season, metaphorical transitions can be subtle, requiring us to trust our instincts to recognize when it’s time to turn the page.

Comfort can be a double-edged sword. It feels familiar, wrapping us in warmth like a cherished blanket. Yet, much like the changing weather signals a shift, our intuition whispers when it’s time to move on, change course, or prioritize our own growth.

As I often say, I can only speak from my own journey. One beautiful truth about our shared humanity is that no matter how unique or intricate your situation feels, there are others out there who resonate with your experiences. Currently, I find myself in a season of elevation, having just emerged from my season of realization.

This realization season was filled with trial and error, where I often overstayed my welcome in relationships that no longer served me, or sat complacent in habits that I knew were not indicative of the woman I aspire to be. It was challenging because, despite the joy and laughter, I felt stagnant in situations that didn't uplift me. I longed for more in my self-love, ambition, and both platonic and romantic relationships. Yet, I was hesitant to make the change, because things weren't horrible. I often questioned whether I was being ungrateful-- because some of these very moments were things I had prayed for.

As that realization season drew to a close, I embraced the idea (and one of my favorite sayings) that "two things can be true at once." I can feel gratitude for where I was while simultaneously recognizing my worth and the new possibilities ahead. My season of realization illuminated truths about how I often neglect myself, allowing others and things to distract me from my true calling.

The reality is, everybody can’t go where you are going. Each person I’ve encountered has taught me something valuable about myself, both positively and negatively. Recognizing when a chapter in our lives is complete is crucial. Bringing the remnants of a past season into a new one can stifle growth. What once felt comforting can leave us desolate if we cling to it for too long—just as the shorts and tank tops that once felt perfect under the summer sun can leave us shivering in winter.

Walking away from what has significantly impacted us is often daunting because of the security those experiences provided during times of need. But it’s essential to remember that it's okay for something that once felt right to no longer resonate. We must learn to release the things that have run their course. Once we’ve absorbed the lessons and savored the memories, we need to be open to the reality that it’s time to turn the page.

I am profoundly grateful for my realization season; it has equipped me with critical insights about myself—what resonates, what doesn’t, and how I wish to treat myself and others. I’ve become more aware of my struggles and strengths, knowing I will revisit that season countless times. However, I understand that carrying the baggage of the past into new seasons can hinder my growth, blocking fresh opportunities. In my current elevation season, I’m embracing the lessons learned. I’m practicing self-compassion, investing in self-care, and gracefully letting go of what no longer serves me—all while holding deep gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me.

What season are you in?

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The Grass Is Greener Where You Water It: The Deceptions in Comparison

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Mental Gymnastics: Balancing self-criticism with self-compassion