Food for Thought: Step Forward into Growth

~ Julie de Rohan, eatonomy®

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.” – Abraham Maslow

How often have you found yourself at that difficult crossroads?

A part of you urges you to step back, insisting you stay in your comfort zone where it’s familiar and safe. “Keep to your usual way of thinking. Continue your old patterns of behaviour. You know where you are then”, it says.

But, like a persistent child tugging at your sleeve, another part wants your attention.

Rather than stay safe, it compels you to move forward. “There’s more for you than this. You know there is”, it whispers, as it hints at an exciting future you’ve yet to discover.

Unsure of which way to go, you find yourself stuck at the junction. Yearning for change but scared of it at the same time.

“What if I get lost?” you ask. “What if life slaps me down for daring to want more?”

But is the discomfort of change as challenging as that nagging feeling you’re not quite living the life you’re meant to?

For me, that feeling is worse than the fear of moving forward.

Besides, life doesn’t slap us down for daring to risk – that’s just the story our Inner Bully tells us.

And getting lost can mean an adventure.

So if you find yourself standing at the crossroads, it’s OK to hesitate, it’s OK to falter. It’s understandable you feel scared and unsure.

But imagine what lies beyond your fear.

Consider the rewards that could be waiting.

Envisage a life of meaning and fulfilment.

And take the step forward into growth.

©️ Julie de Rohan 2020.

Published by Julie de Rohan, eatonomy®

A binge eating disorder specialist therapist helping people struggling with compulsive eating, emotional eating and binge eating.

26 thoughts on “Food for Thought: Step Forward into Growth”

  1. Lovely post. Makes me think of the words in a song about not taking the path of least resistance… thanks for sharing 😄

    Liked by 4 people

      1. It’s a song by Ronan Keating – I hope you Dance. A few years ago I was going through a tough time and my Mum sent me the song on a CD in the post. I’ve never forgotten it. It made me get a grip and carry on ….😄 Have a listen – it’s ace

        Liked by 4 people

      2. I know that song – I think it was recorded originally by LeeAnn Womack. You’re right, it’s incredibly moving (and inspiring). I’m grateful for the reminder, thank you.

        Liked by 1 person

  2. Tried the stepping back because it’s safe only to experience more pain & heartaches . So, I decided to try the moving forwards thing , follow the unknown & just let me dreams surprise me…& so far, been having so much great surprises . Inspiring read 🙏

    Liked by 4 people

    1. It’s wonderful to hear your experience, I’m so pleased stepping forward is going so well for you. I agree, too, that playing safe is often more painful than risking change. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts.

      Liked by 1 person

  6. I remember sighing to myself one time, “I wish I could be more of a risk-taker.” It dawned on me slowly that, um, if that’s who I wanted to be all I needed to do was take risks. So I did. Never looked back! You’re so right that the discomfort or fear of making the leap is better than the feeling that you’re missing something. Thanks for the great post 🙂

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    1. It’s so interesting that we say to ourselves “I wish I could…” but get stuck there, when all we need to do to turn our wish into reality is to take action. It’s great to hear your risk-taking has paid off. I really identify with your experience, Karen – thank you for sharing it.

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  7. Indeed. I’ve always been a bit of a risk-taker, so it’s never a question of going for it or not. I have to tempter myself sometimes because I can push forward too hard. Life is an adventure. We already know what is behind us. Aren’t you curious of what’s up ahead? I am. But I know that it’s not for everyone. Some people never travel. They are fine just where they are.

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  8. Thanks for sharing!!..
    Life Is Now….

    Time flies, and memories fade.
    People change and new friendships are made.
    Only the true remain forever at our side.
    Eventually the disappointment and pain will subside.

    It is all about the journey and what has yet to come.
    Life is what you make of it; you are what you’ve become.
    Life is too short to hold onto regrets.
    Forgiveness is key even though you may never forget.

    Cherish the good and remove the bad.
    Some people don’t realize till it’s gone what they’ve had.
    Moving on is a way of life.
    There will always be obstacles, pain, and strife.

    You must believe that you are strong enough to fight.
    You have to believe in yourself to do what is right.
    Always do for YOU no matter what you do,
    Because in the end the only one who has your back is you.

    Never be afraid to take a stand,
    And always be willing to lend a helping hand.
    A little bit goes a long way.
    All it takes is a smile to brighten someone’s day.

    Your chance to live is now, so what are you waiting for?
    The world is yours for the taking and so much more.
    Endless possibilities are forever at your disposal.
    The chance to live another day is life’s golden proposal.

    Never let anyone tear you down,
    And never let anyone steal your shine and make you frown.
    So will you sit in the shadows and let darkness win again?
    Or will you rise up and make the light your friend?
    (Hollianne Boucher)

    Liked by 5 people

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