The Growth Equation
How Challenges Shape Who We Become
Challenges change us, and if we don’t change, we don’t grow. Therefore, challenges + change = growth.
None of us escape life without facing some kind of challenge. The silver lining? These very challenges are what shape us into stronger, more resilient humans.
I’ve often found myself reflecting after a tough day or challenging period and asking, “What is this experience teaching me?” More often than not, I can pinpoint the lesson. But, let’s be real for a second… there are times filled with frustration, doubt, and uncertainty. And when that happens, I don’t just accept those feelings as truth. I question them. I see them for what they are, which are temporary, limiting beliefs. I don’t let them control me. What I tell myself in those difficult moments often determines how the rest of my day unfolds.
That’s why I’ve developed a simple framework to help navigate those tough times with more ease. The key is to embrace the challenge, not resist it.
Step 1: Identify the Challenge
"You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge."
Get specific: What is causing discomfort or resistance?
Recognize- is it an external obstacle or an internal struggle?
For example: if you are recovering from surgery, you might struggle with the loss of independence.
Step 2: Ask, What is This Teaching Me?
"Every challenge carries a lesson, you just have to be willing to look."
Shift from frustration to curiosity: What growth opportunity does this present?
For example: if you are going through a tough recovery, you might learn patience, self-compassion, or a deeper appreciation for your body’s healing process.
Step 3: Identify Limiting Beliefs
"What are you telling yourself, and is it true?"
Many struggles are worsened by self-doubt and negative self-talk.
Challenge your own narratives: Are you assuming failure? Are you being overly self-critical?
For example: Instead of “I’ll never get back to where I was,” shift to “I am learning to work with my body in a new way.”
Step 4: Take Action
"Growth doesn’t happen just by thinking, it happens by doing."
What’s the next step? How will you apply what you’ve learned?
I want you to take small, meaningful actions to shift your perspective and create change.
For example: If frustration with progress is your challenge, an action step might be practicing gratitude for small wins.
I want to leave you with this: challenges don’t have to be roadblocks- they can be opportunities to grow. Apply this framework to something you are facing right now. It is something that has become a part of my weekly mindfulness practice, and has helped me immensely with difficult situations. Having trouble overcoming a roadblock in your recovery?? Book your free discovery call with me today, and let’s explore how I can assist you on your journey.
With strength and love,
Michaela
