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READ TIME: 3 MINUTES

There’s something magical about the quiet of a crisp winter morning. The light snowfall sparkled like diamonds in the sun, and the bluebirds, woodpeckers, and chickadees zipped from one food source to another, full of purpose and life. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, I felt a fleeting sense of calm. But beneath the surface, I was grappling with something much heavier.

A Moment in Time

Life is a series of ups and downs, in both our personal and professional worlds. There are seasons of joy, success, and fulfillment—and seasons of doubt, struggle, and uncertainty. That morning in nature, I realized I was in a low moment, carrying the toxicity of a prior work engagement.

The experience was temporary, but its effects lingered. I felt a mix of frustration, failure, and self-doubt, replaying the dismissive and destructive tactics that occurred. I gave too much power to the voices of a few, and my subconscious clung to the negativity. These feelings overshadowed the overwhelming support and encouragement from countless others who had been in my corner.

It was a moment in time, but it was teaching me something. Sitting with the discomfort, yet again, allowed me to reflect and understand. And that reflection reminded me of an important truth: everything moves forward, and every challenge is temporary. It’s what we choose to do with those experiences that defines us.

The Epiphany

As I watched the snowflakes settle and the birds dart from tree to tree, clarity came to me. I wasn’t defined by that work assignment or the negativity I had experienced. With this realization, I knew I didn’t have to stay stuck in that moment or keep replaying it.

Those feelings of failure and frustration weren’t mine to carry. They were projections of others’ fear and inability to lead boldly—baggage I no longer had to hold.

I was free.

I thought of the countless people who had cheered me on throughout my career—those who saw my value and believed in what I could achieve. It was time to focus on them—and on me. It was time to shift my energy from fear and doubt to purpose and possibility.

And with that, a switch flipped. I decided: I will no longer give power to the past. I won’t feel badly about how it ended. I’m thankful it did end. And I will focus on what uplifts and empowers me.

The Courage to Move Forward

Over the next few weeks, I made it happen. I stopped replaying the negativity and started listening to the supportive voices that had always been there. I consciously shifted my focus to what I could control: my strengths, my purpose, and my next steps.

Moving forward wasn’t instant, but the decision to let go was. With every small action, I felt the weight of the past lifting, I became more aligned with who I truly am. In just three weeks, I accomplished what had felt impossible over the past twelve—a testament to the power of letting go.

If you’re struggling with lingering self-doubt, learn how to overcome limiting beliefs here.

What I Learned

This experience reminded me of something universal: we are not defined by the voices of a few or the fears that linger in our minds. Challenges are temporary, and the power to move forward lies in choosing to focus on what energizes and empowers us.

Take the First Step

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the negativity of a past experience, remember this: the challenge is temporary, but the lessons are lasting. Sit with it, reflect, and let it guide you toward clarity. Reflection is a powerful tool for growth and clarity. Use it to shift your energy and take the first step toward change. Explore its benefits here.

What will you focus on today to move forward? Share your story with me—I’d love to hear how you’re stepping into your own power.