As we start a New Year, many people have goals that are aligned with the theme of personal growth. As we continue to shift away from pandemic life, many want to focus on making 2023 the best year it can be through personal growth and learning in their careers, relationships, as well as their hobbies and interests.
When you think of personal growth, what comes to mind? It is common to focus on all the positive consequences of growth, without thinking through and accepting the efforts required, as well as the setbacks and challenges.
I find this article really valuable in its focus on growth and learning from a “tradeoff” perspective. Personal growth requires us to accept emotional or physical discomfort, as well as negative emotions, in the short-term; this acceptance feels authentic when the growth we are looking for is “worth it” in the long term.
There are many benefits of genuine personal growth including self-pride, career satisfaction, as well as the development and deepening of relationships. However, we must first accept the challenges that will accompany us on the journey; challenges which help us reach our long-term goals, and foster resilience.
I encourage each of us to reflect on how we want to grow and thrive in the year ahead, including the challenges we are willing to accept. This well-rounded perspective will help each of us make 2023 a great year.
Written by: Taejah Vemuri, LCPC, MPH, Urban Balance