“If you can see your path laid out in front of you step by step, it’s not your path. Your own path you make with every step you take. That’s why it’s your path.” — Joseph Campbell.
Navigating life without a blueprint can indeed feel daunting. The uncertainty and lack of clear direction can be overwhelming, especially when you are transitioning into a new phase of life or career. However, what can be even more unsettling is the realization that you are living a life designed by someone else, following their definitions of success, rather than your own. This is the tipping point I reached after suffering tremendous pressure working in community services with some of the most vulnerable people in our community and making the heart wrenching decision to leave my job, before I had a breakdown. It was a difficult decision, filled with in all honesty, NOTHING but fear, but ultimately it was the first step towards living a life true to myself.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned, looking back over my whole, is that the answers you seek cannot be found in someone else's experiences or advice. While it's beneficial to gather ideas and insights from various sources, these should not be mistaken for definitive answers. Ideas can inspire and guide you, but the true answers lie within you. Your path is unique, and only you can determine what aligns with your values, passions, and goals. This inner journey requires self-trust and introspection, something that can be challenging but ultimately rewarding.
Another critical realization is that success on someone else’s path often feels hollow. Authenticity is key to fulfillment. In the world of entrepreneurship and coaching, for example, many fall into the trap of adopting industry-standard practices that don't resonate with their core values. This misalignment can lead to regret and dissatisfaction, even if it brings outward success. I’ve seen this firsthand and experienced it myself when I joined a program that promised to accelerate my coaching business but didn't align with my principles. Following a path that feels true to you, even if it’s longer and more challenging, is essential for genuine growth and fulfillment. Listening to your inner voice and honoring your own journey can lead to a more meaningful and enriching life.
Curiosity and exploration are indeed the catalysts for discovering the richness of life. When we step outside our comfort zones and venture into the unknown, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities and wonders that we might never have encountered otherwise. Failures and mistakes, often seen as setbacks, are actually the most profound sources of learning. They teach us resilience, humility, and the importance of perseverance. The absence of a predefined blueprint for career pivots or life changes can be a blessing in disguise, as it forces us to explore widely, learn deeply, and grow significantly from our unique experiences.
Ultimately, the greatest obstacle to forging our own paths is often our own fears and self-doubt. The less-trodden path may be daunting, filled with uncertainties and challenges, but it is also where we find the true essence of a life well-lived. It’s about realizing our fullest potential and creating a life that is authentically ours, rather than following someone else’s definition of success. The path ahead may not always be clear, but it will illuminate itself as we take each courageous step forward. Trusting ourselves to embark on this journey is the first and most crucial step to discovering a life of purpose and fulfillment.
After spending years supporting and guiding others on their paths, it dawned on me through self-healing that I wasn't living my authentic truth. In my efforts to be a beacon for others, I realized I had become a side player in someone else's game. When I looked inward, I saw a powerful truth: I was not just meant to heal, guide, and support—I was destined to lead. This epiphany came through the process of discovering myself and loving what I saw. I recognized that my journey was about more than just aiding others; it was about stepping into my own power and leading with authenticity.
So, I made a pivotal choice: to follow MY path, MY way. This decision transformed my life and gave me a sense of fulfillment and purpose that I had never experienced before. It was a reminder that while guiding others is noble, it's equally important to prioritize our own aspirations and dreams. By choosing to lead instead of just support, I found a deeper connection to my true self and a renewed sense of passion.
I invite you to do the same. STOP focusing externally, whether negatively or positively, and CHOOSE YOU in YOUR WAY. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and leadership. Prioritize your own needs and desires.
Remember, the most profound way to support others is by embodying your authentic truth and leading by example. When you choose yourself, you not only uplift your own life but also inspire others to do the same. So take that bold step, follow your heart, and lead with confidence and courage.
Much love Amz XX
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