You’ve Changed! Have you ever heard these words before? Maybe it was a friend, a family member, or even a stranger who said it to you. Maybe it made you feel uncomfortable or defensive. But what if I told you that these words could be the greatest compliment you ever receive?
When someone says, “You’ve changed”, what they’re really saying is, “I’ve noticed that you’re growing and evolving as a person”, and some might even think “I don’t like it, I want you to be as you were before”.
There can be many reasons why people may feel uncomfortable with you changing for the better. One reason is that they may feel threatened by your growth and success. Your progress may highlight their own shortcomings or lack of progress, and they may feel like they’re being left behind. Another reason is that they may feel like they’re losing the person they knew before.
You see…
When we change,
our behaviors, beliefs, and interests
may also change.
This can be difficult for some people to accept, especially if they were used to a certain dynamic or relationship with you.
Additionally, some people may not want you to change because it challenges their perception of you or their own beliefs about what is possible. They may have a fixed idea of who you are or what you’re capable of, and when you start to break out of that mold, it can be unsettling for them.
But what happens when someone tells us, “You’re not yourself”, or “Why do you try to be someone you are not?” These words can be hurtful and confusing. We may start to question our own identity and wonder if we’re doing something wrong.
But take it from me, because I’ve been through this, these words say more about the person saying them than they do about us! It’s important to remember that we are not static beings. We are constantly evolving, and that means our identities are also evolving. We may discover new interests, develop new skills, or meet new people who challenge our beliefs.
All of these experiences can shape who we are, and that’s okay.
For a long time, I honestly struggled with the idea of authenticity. I felt like I had to fit into a certain mold to be accepted by others. But the more I tried to be someone I wasn’t, the more I felt like I was losing myself. It wasn’t until I started embracing my true self that I began to feel happy, joyful, and fulfilled.
My authentic self came more and more to the surface as I allowed myself to explore my interests and values.
I started believing in my own identity and stopped trying to please everyone else.
It wasn’t always easy (and I still find it difficult sometimes), however, I knew it was worth it!
I started believing my inner self was worthy and deserving of love and respect.
It means you’re growing and evolving as a person. And if someone tells you, “You’re not yourself”, remember that you are always yourself, no matter what. Embrace your authentic self, and don’t be afraid to let it shine!
Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and I hope you found it helpful and inspiring.
I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on it.