Sometimes we make decisions thinking we're making the safe choice. We choose paths because they seem reliable and steady. We long for stability. We long to have things in order so that we can experience peace. However, even in the best case scenarios, questions inevitably find us. Even if things are going well, we wonder, am I playing it too safe? Am I not being challenged enough?

In this space, we must remember to be open and honest about what we are feeling. We must seek out places where we feel safe and free to express our doubts and fears. We don't have to feel guilty for wanting something different. It's okay to acknowledge that we feel burnt out even if we love the job. It's okay to admit that we feel distant even in a loving relationship. And here's why it's okay:

Number one, feelings don't last forever.

Number two, you're allowed to feel more than one thing at once.

Number three, ignoring the feelings won't make them go away. Instead, they just go into the underbelly and show up in other places.

Feelings are messy, and oftentimes inconvenient. This is why it makes sense that for many of us, we would rather set them aside or in some situations, avoid them altogether. But when we do choose to do the courageous work of honesty, even when it comes to our emotions, we open ourselves up to grow.

Growth can feel uncomfortable, growth can feel awkward. However, growth also allows us to outgrow the restraints we've put on ourselves because of fear. Whether it's a fear of being vulnerable, appearing weak, experiencing pain or being unlovable, there is a life to be lived on the other side of that fear. A life filled with freedom - freedom to speak up, freedom to open up, freedom to be authentic without dwelling on what others might think.

Addressing your hidden feelings is hard work. But when you do this, you create opportunities for a deeper, more meaningful connection. Now is the time to say goodbye to hiding parts of yourself because you fear how you will be perceived. Yes, there'll be people who are not ready for the real you. But there will also be people who are inspired by your realness. It's possible that you could share your true feelings and you hang up the phone feeling embarrassed for being vulnerable. But what if the opposite happened? What if you hung up the phone feeling relieved and at peace, knowing that it mattered that you were honest? It takes great strength to say what you need to say. But to be honest, is to be brave.

Journal: Have you been straightforward lately? Why or why not?

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