In the journey of life, change is the only constant. It’s a force that shapes and molds us into the individuals we are meant to become. Yet, so often, we find ourselves retreating into the shadows, hiding away from the world, afraid to embrace the discomfort that comes with transformation. But what if we told you that this discomfort is not something to be feared or concealed? In fact, it’s a sign that you’re on the right path, and it’s time to stop hiding and start living authentically.
Choices or Reactions: It’s Still a Choice
Life is filled with choices, some of which we may perceive as reactions. Whether it’s freezing in the face of change or retreating into hiding, these responses are still choices we make. We must recognize that discomfort is a part of growth, and it’s up to us to decide how we navigate it.
The Urge to Hide
How often have you found yourself wanting to hide when you’re in the midst of a personal transformation? It’s not uncommon to feel like you’re in the process of becoming something new, something unfamiliar, and that you don’t want others to witness your imperfection. Society has conditioned us to believe that we must always be perfect, and any deviation from this ideal is unacceptable. But the truth is, imperfection is a part of being human, and it’s something that should be celebrated, not hidden away.
The Fear of Making Others Uncomfortable
One of the reasons we hide our true selves is the fear of making others uncomfortable. We’ve been taught that our honesty and authenticity can be disruptive, that we should conform to societal norms and not rock the boat. But in doing so, we deny ourselves the opportunity to grow and evolve.
The Energy of Hiding
What is, what do you do when you get uncomfortable?
Hiding takes a tremendous amount of energy. When we hide our true selves, we not only hide from the world but also from ourselves. This self-imposed isolation can be exhausting, and it prevents us from fully embracing the change and growth that life has to offer.
Challenging the Notion of Hiding
Change is often uncomfortable, and during those times, it’s natural to want to withdraw from the world. However, it’s essential to challenge the idea that hiding is the only option. Instead of concealing your true self, consider that everything that is can be destroyed and created anew. Embrace the discomfort as a sign that you are evolving, learning, and growing.
The Judgment and Criticism
Sometimes, we hide because we fear judgment and criticism. We worry that if we reveal our true selves, we’ll be seen as “bad” or “annoying.” It’s time to let go of these judgments and embrace your authenticity. Remember that everything that is can be destroyed and created, and your unique qualities are what make you special.
Creating Space for Yourself
Creating space for yourself is not the same as hiding. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to be who you are without fear of judgment. When you create this space, you are not hiding; you are allowing yourself to grow and evolve. It’s an act of self-love and self-acceptance.
Conclusion
In the journey of life, discomfort is not the enemy; it’s a sign that you are growing and evolving. Instead of hiding your true self, embrace the discomfort as a reminder that you are on the right path. Let go of the fear of making others uncomfortable and the judgment of others. Remember that everything that is can be destroyed and created anew, and your authenticity is a gift to the world. So, be bold, be yourself, and let your true light shine.
Kalpana Raghuraman is an advanced facilitator with the modality Access Consciousness, a published author and scholar. She is also artistic director of her own dance company, Kalpanarts.
