The Necessity of Yet During Change
Does the idea of starting a new process or journey feel daunting? Does change cause stress and anxiety? Perhaps you’ve taken some time to think, to wrestle to and fro, wondering, “Is it really worth it?” After all, you’ve been able to function just fine up until this point…or so you think. Otherwise, why would the thoughts of “something has to change or I can’t be the only person going through this!” arise?
As we are in the process of another season of change, I’m reminded of the beauty change offers us. Fall will continue to share with us its vibrant hues and remind us that change can be full of beauty. Yes, beauty. The thought and idea of change can bring a myriad of feelings and emotions, often with fear and uncertainty at the forefront.
What would it look like to shift your perspective and embrace the fact that change can be beautiful? When fear grips you, may I remind you that the steps you’ve taken to meet your goal was the catalyst to usher in something important, a simple and profound word: yet.
‘Yet’ is the permission needed to embrace that where we are, isn’t necessarily where we want to be. However, the tangible steps we are taking will eventually get us to the end goal. We often see this reality when we start something new. Maybe you’re in the process of starting a new job. What are the feelings that arise?
The idea of starting something new is daunting. It can feel overwhelming trying to see how this new role will be a good fit. As you are learning new systems, new co-workers, workflows etc., you are reminded that it is important to be teachable. Eventually you will become more fluid in your role, but getting to that place can sometimes feel unattainable.
This is why yet is a necessity. It is a simple and profound word that leaves room for middle ground that helps you navigate the unknown into the realm of achieving your goal. The necessity of yet offers something powerful and needed for survival—hope. Yet provides space and reminds us that you do not need to have all things figured out in order to grow. It reminds us that each intentional step you’re taking towards your goal will eventually yield an outcome of maturity and growth.
Starting something new can feel overwhelming and the place that can feel most difficult is navigating all the unknowns. Questions like, “Will I have what I need to navigate the unexpected?” may surface. Here’s a secret though, you’ve already navigated new chapters and new unknowns to get you to your current season in life. I venture to say that you stretched and grew into what was needed to get you into a season.
So, how do you begin a new process? It may sound simple, but here it is—start. No, really. Just start. And if you just rolled your eyes at the simplicity of that statement, may I invite you to get introspective? What impact is waiting having on you? What fears come up at the thought of embarking on a new journey? Is it the unknown? Is it the fear that you will not be prepared for all that comes your way? What are your thoughts about process? What is holding you back?
Remember, there is always room for process and growth. One of my favorite artists, Morgan Harper Nichols reminds us that, “You are learning to brave the deep and that is a beautiful thing.” Cheers to allowing space for yet as you continue to flourish and grow in new areas.
