Outgrowing Your Environment

One of the significant outcomes of personal development is the noticeable effect it has on your relationships and your current environment. This occurs as you progress towards the pursuit of a goal while you work to release limiting beliefs that you begin to feel a shift in how you fit into your current surroundings. When this happens, you might notice that the conversations and viewpoints that once felt common with the people around you have somehow changed, making it more difficult for you to relate to these people as well as the situations that surround you. This would be a clear indication that you’ve outgrown your environment.

When this begins to occur, we often feel discouraged. In fact, this is one of the primary reasons that people resist changing because they are often reluctant to let go of the relationships and environments that feel familiar to them when they are in the midst of transitioning into a new role, and new way of performing in the world. To let go of what feels familiar can bring up a variety of feelings during the stages of change, which can range from being scared and alone, to isolated when you’re not sure of where you fit in, and are still feeling uncertain about your future. Understand that this is all part of the process, and even though this in-between place can feel unsettling, it will eventually shift as you become more comfortable with your new image. What’s important to realize is that outgrowing your environment is actually a good sign because its usually the first indication that growth has taken place. Also, keep in mind that these outward changes in your life don’t usually happen abruptly but rather gradually over time since they are dependent on your comfort level and your ability to adapt and internalize change.

Regardless, environment is very important to our success. It can make all the difference in the world when you are in the process of making changes, especially when it comes to getting quicker results as you adopt new beliefs and behaviors. A supportive environment will facilitate this progression and will help to make change a more formidable prospect for the individual. Without this support though, the process can seem insurmountable, especially because we are more sensitive to outside influences when our new beliefs and behaviors have not yet become firmly established within us. Therefore, it is at this point when our surroundings echo our old beliefs, that cause us the most distress. Its this period of transition that can be the most challenging.

Because of this, it’s essential to seek out other avenues of support and to broaden your professional and social circles. Reach out to new people who reflect your new attitude and way of life. You might consider the following sources: business networking, mastermind groups, seminars/workshops, coaches/mentors, spiritual or religious groups, community activities and various classes. Trust your gut when it comes to choosing the right environment or new connection. You know that you’re in the right place when you feel inspired, supported and an overall positive, upbeat energy. Notice whether you feel energized rather than drained by the atmosphere. Keep in mind that with time, you will naturally attract the people and situations that reflect who you are and what you are looking to create.