Renewal and Rebirth

April 2013

I like it when the first of the month falls on a Monday. It always seems like an auspicious day to begin a new project, sign up for a class, or launch a diet. And yesterday was Easter, my favorite holiday because it is about rebirth and renewal (and other miracles). So, no wonder today my mind is on new beginnings. It has been my observation over the years that what I really need before a fresh start is to let go of some things. Start off with a mental, physical, and/or emotional spring cleaning. Wipe the slate clean.

When I skip that initial step in starting out fresh, it seems to impede the rest of my progress. Sure, I want to bring along valuable lessons from prior experiences. Yet, I often pack much more baggage than I need, which weighs me down and slows my growth. Imagine standing up a new team when you are holding tight to preconceived notions about each person. Your assessments may keep you from letting them contribute all that they might be capable of doing. Or, you sign up for a new class. But you have already labeled yourself as someone not competent, so you doom yourself to a mediocre outcome (or at least have a ready excuse for not succeeding). Or you find out your company just hired a new Director that you will be reporting to, starting today. If you still haven’t forgiven yourself for the mistakes you made under the prior supervisor, you have a difficult road ahead with the new boss. You won’t be able to get out of your own way. I know this from personal experience and professional observations.

When I cannot let go of old ways of seeing others, or myself, or my situation, it does not bode well for future endeavors. If I cannot forgive myself for mistakes I’ve made in the past, I stay stuck. Renewal becomes almost impossible. Turning away from our negative past is a great start to a new path. Rebirth comes when we can courageously take even tiny steps to become the person our wise self knows.

What in your work life needs renewal? Where is rebirth made difficult by not letting go of old habits, thoughts and beliefs? If I can support you in a process of new beginnings in your work, please let me know. It would be my privilege to walk with you on that professional journey.

Warm regards,

Sharon
Sharon Keys Seal

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