The Humbling: A Journey from Crisis to Clarity

Living Life in the Fast Lane

Ever felt like your life is moving at a pace you can’t control? That’s exactly how I felt for the longest time. Like a car on the highway, I constantly zoomed from one destination to another, ignoring the speed limits. It seemed that, just like many high achievers, I had become blind to the “slow down” signs and speed bumps in my path, continuously pushing through obstacles with adrenaline as my fuel.

A Wake-Up Call

The consequences of this high-speed lifestyle soon caught up with me. My child faced a crisis, and a mere six weeks later, my beloved mother-in-law passed away. The pain was immense, compounded by my deep-seated belief that faith would see us through any tragedy. Physical grief took over. Days turned into months where even speaking became an emotional task, and I felt trapped in a constant state of sorrow.

The Repercussions of Ignoring Warning Signs

Looking back, there were clear signs of impending burnout. I was plagued with health issues, relying heavily on sugar, caffeine, and adrenaline just to keep going. My body was signaling that I was heading for adrenal fatigue, but I hadn’t recognized the signs. It wasn’t just physical; my mental health was on the edge, leading to a profound crisis of identity and faith.

The Power of Journaling and Introspection

Amidst this turmoil, I clung to a childhood habit: journaling. Documenting my thoughts became an essential way to process my emotions and understand my mental state. This self-reflection led me to identify areas where my personal challenges mirrored those I saw in my children. I discovered the concept of “half-functioning anxiety” – a term I had previously been unaware of – and began the process of addressing it.

Embracing the Pause

Realizing the magnitude of the issue, I made the challenging decision to halt my business for 18 months. This step was essential for creating space for self-care and reflection. While the digital world moved on, I grounded myself, focusing on my immediate surroundings, my health, and my family.

Relearning Value through Service

During this personal hiatus, a moment of divine intervention nudged me out of my introspective cocoon. Encouraged to look beyond my struggles and serve others, I volunteered at my local church. This simple act of service began retraining my mind, teaching me that even in my diminished state, I could still provide value to others.

Gleaning Wisdom from the Past

It’s often said that history repeats itself, and this couldn’t be more accurate. Reflecting on faith-based stories and figures, I realized that many great leaders, including Jesus and Moses, underwent humbling experiences. Such episodes served as catalysts for personal growth, instilling humility and resilience.

The Importance of Seeking Help

One key realization was that there are limits to self-help. While personal growth is vital, we all need a support system, be it friends, family, or professionals. Recognizing this need and reaching out for assistance can be the most empowering step in our journey towards healing.

A Renewed Purpose

With time, introspection, and healing, I discovered a new purpose. What started as a personal coping mechanism – my journaling – became potential content for a book. I realized that by sharing my story, I could provide solace, inspiration, and guidance to others experiencing similar struggles.

Conclusion

Life’s humbling moments, while painful, can often pave the way for profound personal growth and clarity. By acknowledging our challenges, seeking help, and leaning into the lessons they offer, we can emerge more resilient, compassionate, and purpose-driven.