When we start out on our journey, and we’re setting the tone for how we want to be and who we want to be, we very rarely stop and look at what might create pressure for us against what we’re doing. We tend to assume that because we found something that we want to do that everyone around us is going to be happy for us and want to support us.
However, the truth lies somewhere in between that, and blocking any attempt we might make.
Because when we set the tone of how we’re going to move forward, that affects the interactions and relationships we have with others. And often those we know and are close to start to see us changing. And they don’t like it. They don’t want us to change. They want us to be the person we’ve always been. Because then they know where they stand with us. They don’t want us to change because what if in changing, we decide we don’t need them?
And so in many ways, what will happen is not a direct challenge but a gradual pressure, a questioning, casting doubt, even an emotional, don’t you like me anymore, don’t you love me?
Pressure comes in a lot of ways. And it’s not about meeting it head on and having a pitched battle. It’s about continuing to be who you be, and allowing what is unfolding for you to guide your journey. If you engage in the pressure that’s being exerted on you, your journey is stopped. It’s all about what’s happening between you and whoever is non accepting.
If you keep moving and they see that though you’re moving, you’re still present, often that means that that pressure will gradually stop. It may not totally stop but it will gradually reduce. And at that point, you can begin to celebrate because you’ve triumphed over the needs of others to keep you in your box.
That is a huge step. It’s not often seen as such, but it takes a lot of courage and conviction to continue to be who you are growing into in spite of those around you rather than because of those around you.
Do you succumb to pressure or do you triumph?