Sometimes we have to shed our old skin. Because it is outworn. Because it no longer fits. Because we need to keep growing. Only we resist it... We resist it because for a while, the process of shedding the old will require us to feel naked and vulnerable (and none of us like to feel [...]
Category: Personal Growth
Resting on Laurels
In a world that measures 'success' by milestones of achievement, it is tempting to lean into our past accomplishments as a measure of our self-worth and ability, focusing on what we've done (for ourselves), rather than what we can do (for others), especially during times of struggle or transition. While the process of achievement itself can be a [...]
Selling Out
Far too often, we sell ourselves short and/or sell ourselves out. We act from a place of fear. We act from a place of pride. Sometimes, we fail to act at all. I should know. For too long I allowed fear (and later pride) to hold me back. Pick your flavor, I've probably tasted it [...]
The Battle Within
'They' say life is less about what happens to us, than how we respond to it, and that our attitude affects outcomes. I believe in these principles and have often written about the same. Put a smile on our face, respond with equal parts humility, forgiveness, gratitude and surrender, and all will be fine. Only [...]
Saddle Back Up!
If sometimes we need to do a little Texas two-step to keep moving forward, we also need to learn to saddle back up! A seasoned rider since the time I was small, I recall with great clarity the ease with which I once rode my proverbial horse wild and free, feeling on top of my [...]
Changing Our Narrative
How many times do you find yourself describing your present in terms of where you've been in the past? "I'm here because of what happened when I was there." "I'm doing this because that happened before." There is nothing wrong with providing context for our stories, our choices, and our lives, but too often we [...]
The Space In Between
In the weeks leading up to the recent launch of a personal initiative I've spent years preparing for and months developing, I found myself standing in that awkward space in between. You know the one. It's the no man's land between advancement and retreat; between pushing forward and playing to win, or playing it safe, [...]
Me and My Shadow
The sun shining over endless fields of corn as the sun rose to meet the day, I walked in peaceful reflection, grateful for this season of joy and abundant growth. As my mind and body meandered along the path, I became aware of the shadow cast, at times looming large in front of me, while [...]
Poisoned Fruit
Most mornings I rise around 5:30 a.m. It's always quiet, usually dark, and the time of day when my heart and mind are most open to spiritual matters. It is a time of reading, reflection and prayer; moments of mindful meditation before the noise of the world comes crashing in. A few days ago, I [...]
Empowering Our Dreams From Within
For as long as I can remember, I've loved biographies and autobiographies. Real life stories of courage amidst struggle, triumph over defeat, and hope in the face of despair. I love these stories not only because they're interesting, but because they challenge and inspire us to grow beyond the status quo, daring us to dream [...]
Sharon E. Reed [Blog] 