Endings Make Way for New Beginnings.
Have you ever had that gut feeling that there’s something more you’re supposed to be doing with your life? You can’t quite explain it but it’s an inner knowing.
A client once asked me how you know when it’s the right time to make a change. My short answer to her - You just know. My detailed answer came in the form of the following story:
Upon my return to the US, I moved in with my parents. I loved it. My relationship with them grew stronger and deeper than ever. However, as time wore on, I found myself pulling into the driveway and holding my breath as the garage door rose. I prayed that I didn’t see their vehicle in the garage so I could have a few, quiet moments to myself. When I noticed this sinking feeling in my gut as I awaited the rise of the garage door, I knew something about my current situation needed to change. It was time. I just knew.
Pay attention to that sinking feeling. That gut reaction. It won’t steer you wrong.
After 3 years, I said goodbye to teaching yoga at a local studio yesterday. As I said my final parting words, tears welled in my eyes. My voice cracked. And, I barely uttered the last “Namaste.”
Some people naturally assume when there’s a change or an ending that it’s on bad terms. Over and over I was asked why I was leaving or where I’ll be teaching next.
The truth is - I’m pulling back. I’m intentionally taking commitments off of my plate to make room for growth.
Early last summer, I got that same sinking feeling as I drove to teach yoga. Don’t get me wrong - I love yoga. I love teaching. And, more than anything, I LOVE my students. But the feeling was back and I knew I had to honor it.
Once I became aware of the feeling and explored the idea of change, I could clearly see how not only was the studio holding me back, but also I was holding the studio back. They wanted to do so much more than I had the bandwidth to offer.
The students and studio will be better for it, I was certain of that when I made my decision.. Additional classes will be offered. New types of yoga will be taught. Most importantly, there will be fresh energy infused into the studio. And, I will have the opportunity to pour life and energy into my other businesses by being fully present.
When you’re ready to grow, something has to change. That might mean letting go or it might mean adding to. Whatever it means to you, be intentional and let it happen.
Change can feel hard, scary even. But it doesn’t have to be! Let it be exciting, invigorating and energizing. Remember, endings make way for new beginnings.
With that, I’m going to leave you with the final words I choked out to my students at the end of class:
Remember always, how you choose to show up in the world will magnify all the things that show up for you. Show up with kind thoughts. Loving words. And, a grateful heart. Namaste.
If you’re in a space where that sinking feeling is coming up, I’d love to explore what that could mean for you and help you create an action plan to make the next right move.
