5 Signs You’re Flourishing, Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like You Are

There are certain paths that we can choose in life, but only one of them is the right one for us.

The thing is, every one of us is unique – we all have our distinct traits, wishes, and abilities. Therefore, it would simply be unlogical and ill-fitting for everyone to walk the same road.

Life is a journey, and it’s one that just can’t be quite completed. Over time, we learn, we make mistakes, we make big decisions, and we also trip and fall.

In life, it’s important that you get up and keep going. If you don’t move forward, you’ll be stuck in the same place and no matter how much you thrash and fight, it gets you nowhere.

Life is a journey that constantly teaches us new things. And time is what helps us grow and change as a person.

Sometimes, we might feel discouraged or hurt, at times weak to the point where we feel unable to carry on. But there are still some things that we have to do and have to get over.

All of the hardships, as well as the good times, shape us into the person we are today. It might not feel like it, but there are actually signs that you’re flourishing as a person.

Many of us are just not aware of it. This unconsciousness can be a result of many factors that surround and heavily impact us.

1. You feel like an outcast

One of the first signs that you’re flourishing could be this feeling of being estranged. Sometimes, you might feel like an alien in your own home, society, or planet.

This can be a tough thing to overcome, especially if you’re dealing with it on your own. Feeling like someone who simply doesn’t belong can’t sit right with you.

You might see that your friends are still in the same spot you left them some time ago. It doesn’t necessarily mean they’re enjoying and having the time of their lives, but still, they’re not moving forward.

It could also mean that you’ve moved on and improved, while they’re still struggling to make the first step. You stepped into the outside world, out of your comfort zone.

Sure, you still feel scared sometimes, but isn’t that what keeps you going and what also got you to where you are now?

Don’t ever be afraid of being different. Sometimes, it can get you to places you’ve only ever dreamed of before.

Remember that only dead fish go with the flow. Therefore, don’t shy away from making those tough life decisions and leaving behind those who don’t seek self-improvement.

Being an outcast doesn’t always have to hold a negative connotation. It can also mean you’re growing as a person but simply aren’t aware of the fact.

2. You left someone or something behind

Most people feel bad for leaving someone or something behind them. However, it’s sometimes inevitable and something you must do.

In such instances, you must move on your own because otherwise, you would only be sabotaging yourself. It’s okay to fall out with someone and leave those memories behind.

People cherish loyalty, but it doesn’t mean that you should stay by someone’s side even when they make you unhappy. Your loyalty shouldn’t come at the expense of your improvement.

You can’t spend your whole life dragging someone by their sleeve and begging them to come on this journey of yours.

Sometimes, letting go of someone or something hurts less than trying to keep them in your life. It’s a tough decision, but one you really have to make.

If you’re capable of differentiating between being loyal and sacrificing yourself and your potential, then you’re definitely flourishing as a person.

In the beginning, it might even sound selfish. But leaving someone and something behind that was a big part of your life doesn’t only label you as an outcast, it also turns the pages for you.

Think of it this way – your memories get overloaded and you just have to erase the old ones in order for you to store the new. And remember, there’s nothing wrong with making choices that are good for you.

3. Your view on life changed completely

One of the best signs that you’re growing as a person is that your perspective has changed.

Although not one hundred percent of the time, people who don’t grow up usually hold on tightly to their former beliefs and interests. If you’re not willing to let go of something and accept new things and surroundings, then it’s impossible for you to grow.

Sure, it’s no piece of cake – it’s definitely easier said than done. However, for your own sake, you must take matters into your own hands and see life from different angles.

That’s the only way you’ll be able to know what it really looks like. You’ll flourish when you learn to accept different views on life.

Thinking outside the box has got people to many different places and brought them many opportunities. But one can’t say the same for staying in that same box.

It doesn’t have to be a drastic change – you can grow as a person while still keeping the same or similar view on life. It’s completely fine to keep your former opinions (if they’re still valid).

The important thing is to keep an open mind and welcome anything and everything. Get out of your comfort zone and burst your own bubble if need be.

4. You said your goodbyes and welcomed something else

It takes a lot of courage and strength to leave something familiar, something you once called home. But not much is needed to accomplish the same feelings and results over again.

Most people try to trick themselves into thinking that they’ve had their fair share of goodbyes. However, time tells them that they’re utterly wrong.

It only turns back to bite them in the face. Hiding the truth from yourself is never a clever option. One day, it all just piles up and erupts like an old volcano awoken after lying dormant for decades.

One way that you can know you’re flourishing is that you don’t regret any of the choices you’ve made. This firmness and eagerness tell you that you accept yourself for who you are. It also states that you have respect for yourself and, most importantly, you trust yourself.

Second-guessing your decisions might only have an adverse effect on you. This way, you wind up belittling yourself and underestimating your powers and talents.

Although it’s sometimes good to step on the brake and turn around and look at your surroundings, remember who’s your true friend.

You wouldn’t have said your goodbyes to something you couldn’t let go of, right? Therefore, you always knew you didn’t need it and you could live without it, it’s just that you finally learned to let go of it.

5. You’re more interested and curious

Looking back, your lack of self-esteem and respect for yourself held you down and closed many doors on you. This time, it’s different.

You’re more carefree and willing to try new things. You’re not afraid of taking an interest in something new, something you’ve never considered before.

It’s okay to still have the same habits and behavior as you used to. However, if it’s something that’s dragging you down, it’s time to say goodbye to it.

When you’re flourishing and growing as a person, you willingly enter a whole new world you didn’t know even existed. Perhaps you’ve been told that curiosity killed the cat. But until now, you’ve never thought of the fact that cats have nine lives.

Therefore, don’t listen to anything that’s going to stand in the way of your lifelong journey.

It’s okay to ask questions. And it’s okay to demand answers. Life is too short for you to just stand by and watch it unfold.