Self Discovery... Just for Hippies?

For the past couple years I have been on a path of self-discovery. I used to think that the only people who had these experiences were hippies. Hmm maybe I AM a hippy...? (Not that there's anything wrong with that.)

Anyway, the reason why I want to share some of my discoveries is because I have discovered (among many other things) a passion for helping others to know their true selves and to live to their fullest potential. Self-discovery is not just for hippies; it is for anyone who has never had the opportunity to develop and grow into their own person. You don't really have any direction in life; you're not really sure what your passions and dreams are. You live your life on auto-pilot, just going through the motions of everyday life with no meaning behind your actions. You just do what you're expected to do.

Some may call it an existential crisis. I call it the need to live a happy, meaningful life.

As you read through 3 of my developments from this past year, I urge you to take the time to search inward and begin walking your own path of self-discovery. That path will look different for everyone; mine happened to take the form of practicing mindfulness, yoga, and being alone in nature. Do what you love. Be where you find the most peace.

SELF-DISCOVERY #1: I discovered that I can be happy right now.

With practicing mindfulness came learning to be thankful and learning to make the most of every day, no matter where I am. I used to think I could not be truly happy until my life was in order according to the plan in my head. As time has passed, that plan in my head has changed a hundred times and I have been wasting all of that time waiting for greater things. The thing is, while great things may be to come, amazing things are already in the current moment I am in. We will always be working toward something. Learn to find happiness in the moment instead of waiting to be fulfilled by an end point.

SELF-DISCOVERY #2: I discovered that I'm just not one of those "graceful" types.

I wish I could stop the terrible habit of picking at my nails. I wish I could be less emotional. I wish I could be more out-going. I wish I didn't say the wrong thing on a regular basis. I always wished I could be different. Like other people. But then other people wish they were like other people. Where does it end? It ends with acceptance. I am not anyone else for a reason. I am me and I will live my life as the awkward, emotional, quirky, animal-loving person I was created to be.

SELF-DISCOVERY #3: I discovered that I am capable of far more than I realize.

How many times have I said, "oh I could never do that!" And did it? How many times have I thought, "I will never get through this." And did? I have limited myself because of my own underestimation and have thought myself incapable of great things. No more. I am still standing after every obstacle placed in my path for the past 30 years. Nothing is going to stop me now.

These discoveries have changed me. I am happier, more content, and at peace. I have learned to love the little things, take in the beauty of every day, and live in the moment. I have given up trying to live my life according to the expectations of others and have instead embraced the path I have chosen for myself. While I may not always have a "hearts and flowers" attitude at all times, these discoveries have changed my default setting of constant disappointment and anxiety to hopefulness, contentment, and increased positivity.

Self-discovery. Try it... you'll like it.

Judy