Shifting is a process of growth. Its genesis—seeds. Remarkably, we carry them within us. How is it we do not know of their existence? What is it we are doing or not doing that contributes to their dormancy? What is behind this mystery?

As we explore why our seeds “may currently be dormant,” we begin by understanding there is no deficiency within the seeds themselves. Nor is it a fault of our own, or not noticing them, or not searching hard enough. The awareness to do so is simply not available to us. It is important to embrace this truth.

We are shielded from dormant seeds by various forms of camouflage—disruptions and diversions which consume us and often control the course of our lives.

Forms of camouflage are deceptive. Their presence often appears to provide us with opportunities for growth or change, at least in self-satisfying or superficial ways. On closer examination, forms of camouflage typically limit our growth, conforming us to patterns of survival, some beneficial and some not. In order to begin the process of acknowledging sleepy seeds and of discerning their presence, we must familiarize ourselves with the most prevalent forms of camouflage. Only then can we understand the concept ofSHIFTING Bravely and begin our journey through a seasonal process of self-growth.

One common form of camouflage is stagnation and settling. Many of us have come to accept that getting by is good enough, even if we feel stuck or unsatisfied. Others of us, who know we are not living up to our potential or pursuing our dreams, feel trapped and resigned to predetermined destinies. Day after day, our growth is stunted by settling for a degree of security and stagnating in mundane routines. How does this happen?

Because diverse internal and external sources of influence shape our developmental years as well as our own choices, we enter into young adult years with perceptions and expectations regarding self-efficacy. Some of us view ourselves as independent, free to choose what we want for ourselves and our lives. Others of us may feel obligated, or in many cases, bound or oppressed by our circumstances, forcing us to settle for something we do not want.

Stagnation and settling shroud our thinking with self-doubt and self-blame. More importantly, over time and with repetition of behavioral patterns, these agents of camouflage condition us into believing we don’t deserve anything more, anything better, or different. Or perhaps on some level, we convince ourselves we should be grateful for what we have and what we know.

From the many stories I received regarding “A SHIFT in My Life,” let’s begin with Robert’s experience. His words convey the dormant nature of his seeds, settling for what he was taught and feeling resigned with the status quo—securing a future for himself.