Growth

Spring has arrived, and change is in the air. Students are graduating, flowers are blooming, and days are lasting longer. What do all of these have in common? Growth.

It’s a word that usually has a positive connotation because there is developmental progress attached to it. In terms of mental health, growth illustrates an emotional, behavioral and spiritual change that adds value to one’s life. Individuals grow as they mature, but such growth is not without challenges as one struggles to connect with others as well as self. One does not grow, or advance to the next stage, when they are winning, but when they are facing adversity. And if one is willing to persevere and show their strengths when hardships occur, self-confidence and self-worth increase. These are rewards like no other.

So, whether you are attending a graduation ceremony to observe a loved one advancing to their next stage in life or enjoying sunny days amid the newly developed blooms, remember the importance of growth. Ask yourself if certain experiences are providing you the opportunity to dig deeper into your soul and plant seeds for a beautiful garden of beliefs — which you feel to be true, valuable and important. They will enhance your desire to continue to grow.

Written by Melinda Barefoot