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Growth Over Stagnation: Becoming the Best Version of Yourself

Writer's picture: Merle ReimersMerle Reimers

You're sitting at your desk, staring into the distance, when it hits you—that nagging feeling. You find yourself asking, "Is this really all there is?" Your daily routine feels safe and comfortable, yet undeniably... dull. Deep down, you sense it: it’s time for a change.


Change, along with the uncertainty it brings, can be scary. But here’s the thing: it’s also the gateway to growth. In this article, you’ll discover how to embrace change with courage and step into the best version of yourself.

 


Paper with "grow" on it

Why is change so hard?


We humans are creatures of habit—it’s hardwired into our nature. Routines and familiar patterns feel secure because they give us a sense of control. Our brains love them too; they conserve energy by sticking to known behaviors.


The problem? Growth lives outside the comfort zone, and leaving it feels uncomfortable.

The fear of the unknown triggers what’s known as the “status quo bias”—our brain's preference for the current state, even if it’s not making us happy.



Add to that the fear of failure. Thoughts like, "What if I can’t do it?" or "What if things get worse?" play on a loop, holding you back. Your brain, trying to protect you, paints worst-case scenarios to steer you away from perceived danger. While this was helpful in the past (think survival in the wild), it now keeps you stuck in a loop of self-doubt.


And let’s not forget the influence of those around us. Well-meaning advice like, “Stick with what you know” or “That’s too risky” can amplify your doubts. But often, these voices reflect their fears, not your desires or potential.


Here’s the good news: feeling afraid of change is completely normal.

It’s a sign you’re at the edge of growth. Change doesn’t mean you need to upend everything overnight—it starts with small, courageous decisions.

 


Growth starts with one small step


Change doesn’t have to be radical. You don’t need to shave your head, move to a foreign country, or end a long-term relationship. Sometimes, it’s the little shifts that set bigger things in motion.

  • Try a different gym schedule.

  • Take a new route home.

  • Sign up for a language class.

  • Visit a café you’ve never been to.

  • Join that workshop you’ve been curious about for months.


Ask yourself: What do I want to change in my life? What’s bothering me? Where am I holding myself back?


Write it all down to gain clarity. Then pick one area that matters most and start exploring how to shift it. Tackle one thing at a time—don’t overwhelm yourself. Prioritize. 😊


Exercise: Write down three small changes you can implement in the next few weeks. For example:


  1. Spend 10 minutes a day on yourself.

  2. Read an inspiring book.

  3. Rekindle an old hobby.

 


The Magic of Growth


Every time you try something new, overcome a challenge, and gain experience, you naturally build confidence. You start recognizing your capabilities, and that sense of pride is unmatched.


Imagine how it feels to finally look back and think, "Wow, I did it. I took the leap." You feel alive—free from old limitations. Isn’t that an incredible thought?


Stepping out of your comfort zone opens up opportunities you didn’t even know existed. This shift in mindset brings freedom because growth means leaving old limits behind and stepping into your full potential.

 

 

Tools to help you embrace change


1. Visualization Picture your life after the change. What does it look like? What do you feel, hear, and see? Where are you? What steps did you take to get there? Who will benefit from your growth? What’s your “why”? Write it all down—it’s your roadmap.

2. Support Your environment shapes you more than you think. Surround yourself with people who inspire and believe in you. Seek out those who cheer for your progress or have already achieved what you aspire to. Remember, advice from someone who’s stuck themselves may not align with your goals.

3. Patience Change doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each small step forward. Think of change like planting a seed—water it daily and let it grow at its own pace. Pulling at it won’t make it sprout faster!

 


The Unknown isn’t your enemy


The unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s an ally on your journey to a life that truly fits you. A life where you can authentically be you, without compromise.


Every great journey starts with a single step. Change isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. It leads to a life full of authenticity, joy, and fulfillment.


In the unknown, growth is always waiting for you. The question isn’t if you can change—the question is: Are you ready to take the first step?

 

 

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