Three Realities that are Important to Accept

1. Growth is optional. When we expand our thinking, we see it reflected in the way we communicate with those around us. It is visible in how we begin to shift from a reactionary mode to a more responsive approach. These changes occur gradually and at their own pace. The thing about growth is that when we are working on becoming a better version of ourselves, we want all of those around us to experience it because it excites us. It is in our human nature to share our enthusiasm with those we love. However, this is where we must accept that not every person in your life will participate in this celebration, no matter how much you try to include them. It’s important to remember that growth is optional. Accepting that people grow when they are ready will help you shift the focus back to your journey. This acceptance allows you to explore ways you can celebrate your own growth without the bells and whistles from others… and that is okay. That does not mean they don’t love you any less. Your growth is for you, not them. Attempting to convince another person to change causes friction, and it is our own responsibility to choose when we are prepared to grow.
2. The relationship with ourselves is a priority. Our relationship with ourselves is reflected in the relationships around us, and we can only love people to the capacity in which we love ourselves. So it is important to listen to our internal compass…it guides us through our everyday decisions. If we place ourselves on the back burner, we begin to lose the connection between our mind and heart, which in return builds pockets of resentment, regret, and/or discomfort within ourselves. These things can disconnect us from who we want to be in the world.
3. Adult love isn’t unconditional. As much as we would like it to be unconditional, adult relationships must have certain conditions. This is important so that we create/nourish loving relationships that create safety and healthy interactions. Therefore, conditions are created to support this environment. We can love another person and also recognize that they are not the best fit for our emotional well-being. In contrast to parent-child relationships where ideally love is unconditional, adult relationships that thrive require us to be connected with ourselves so that we can show up in the best ways for ourselves and the other person.

Accepting realities help us better understand who we are and what we need in order to be our most authentic selves. Being accepting does not mean being passive. It allows for us to open the window to the life we see before us and understand it in a more meaningful way. Accepting these realities allows you to move forward with grace and understanding.

Self-Reflection:
What realities do you feel need to be accepted in your life?