Growth is Intentional

In my last post, “Finding Direction in Life,” I discussed the importance of being still and listening to the inner wisdom that can guide us during uncertain times. When it feels like we don’t know what to do, taking a moment to quiet our minds and connect with our inner knowing can help us find our path and solid ground in life.

This week, my heart has been speaking to me about growth—personal development in spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional aspects. Growth is possible in so many different areas, but one crucial point stands out:

Growth is intentional.

beautiful flower I captured in my garden last summer. As a gardener it takes intentional care to insure my flowers have the best chance of blooming.

While it’s beneficial to learn about the direction we can find in the stillness of life, it is entirely different to move intentionally based on the insights we gain. Knowing is not enough; we must act on that knowledge.

It's all about taking action and walking the revealed path.

Too often, life presents us with opportunities for growth and encourages us to take risks, but we may follow through only half-heartedly. Fear and doubt can rob us of the trust that we could cultivate through diligent effort.

Part of this knowing is recognizing that our existence is sufficient. In my blog post entitled “Just Be: Surrender to God,” I discussed how the value of our lives isn’t measured by traditional markers of “success” or “purpose.” Yet, too frequently, we navigate life as if it were. We stumble and act out of fear, convinced that life will come to a halt if we don't execute everything perfectly. This leads us to overthink, overplan, hide, and ultimately do nothing.

Growth is intentional work.

It requires us to show up authentically, take risks, embrace failures, and keep trying until we achieve the desired outcome. It is about being decisive and persistent rather than remaining stagnant.

Growth cannot occur if we are constantly burdened by the fear of “What if it doesn’t work?” or “What if it doesn’t happen for me?”

But consider this: What if it does happen for you?

One thing is certain—it will never occur if you remain paralyzed by “what if.” So take a risk, follow your heart, and manifest the life that was meant for you to live.