December 4

You're always so quiet."

"You're always so serious."

"You seem to have your head in the clouds."

"You're so… energetic."

"Do you ever let loose?"

"Are you just always trying to be different?"

There are times when we find ourselves puzzled by the comments people make, wondering about their true meanings. Some might interpret this as a reflection of how they're seen by others, while others might not be bothered by it at all. And for some, you might wrestle with it for a while, wondering what the implications might be. You may wonder “Am I reading too much into it? Were those comments meant literally? Is this how people see me?”


No matter how you interpret these comments, whether you're unphased, feel differently, or are somewhere in the middle, may you know this: you are still allowed to go on a continual journey of who you are in this life, beyond the things that others say, or what you’ve said about yourself. There may be moments when you want to clarify or elaborate to others, but there will also be moments when you can just let go. You can let go knowing that far beyond the labels, definitions, or images others have of you, it doesn’t stop you from exploring new ways of moving through this life.

Remind yourself, over and over again, "I am creating space to explore who I am beyond the limits of who I thought I had to be. I am creating room for continual discovery."

This phrase can be repeated after any of those other kinds of observations listed above. Add it to the list of kind things you say to yourself. Remember that you are someone who is on a journey of continual discovery. You are allowed to pause and reflect on what words sit right with you and which one’s don’t. You’re allowed to carry on, learning to let go where you need to let go and continue making room for discovery, possibility, and growth.