When You Know, But You're Not Ready Yet

There is this uncomfortable, very uncomfortable, space between awareness and choosing differently. The space between holding a new boundary, having that conversation with someone, making a different choice, reframing a belief that is holding you back, or letting go of fear.

Sometimes it looks like knowing exactly what I want to do differently but being too uncomfortable to do it... yet.

Sometimes that means I am building more awareness around it. Other times, that means I am letting the courage build up. And that is okay.

I've started to realize that just because I know what I need to do differently doesn't mean I am ready to do it yet.  

I do know that the faster I act, the faster I will become the version of myself I am working toward. I also know that I have to take action when I am ready, and sometimes that awareness and courage need time to build. Both can be true.

I get frustrated with myself at times for not fully stepping into that new version. For not holding the boundary that is important to me. For not making the choice I know I want to make. For not having the conversation that could bring clarity.

But this uncomfortable and frustrating space can also be a stepping stone.

A place to acknowledge how I am feeling. A place to make a plan for next time. A place to give myself grace for where I am at while continuing to move forward.

Reflection: What is something I know I want to do differently but haven't acted on yet? What emotions come up when I think about making that change? What might help me feel more ready to take a small step forward?

Action Step: The next time you notice yourself feeling frustrated for not being further along, pause and ask: "What have I become aware of that I wasn't aware of six months ago?" Celebrate the growth that has already happened.