One crisp February morning, a singular idea sparked within me like a bolt of inspiration—an idea so vivid and compelling that I couldn’t ignore its call. Before the day was over, I had taken the leap and secured the domain name for Waking Up at 30-Something. Little did I know, that seemingly small decision would set into motion a profound journey of self-exploration and growth.

At that point in time, I wasn’t a seasoned writer, nor did I possess a clear roadmap for what the blog would become. The prospect of sharing my personal stories felt daunting, and the idea of entrepreneurship seemed like a distant dream meant for someone else. Yet, despite my uncertainties, that initial spark ignited a series of transformative events that would forever alter the course of my life.

Fast Forward To The Present Day

While Waking Up at 30-Something never evolved beyond the purchase of the domain name, the journey it symbolized profoundly changed my outlook and trajectory.

It all began in February of 2020, when I found myself at a pivotal juncture. At 38, fresh off a tumultuous year at work that had left me questioning my career path, I realized that I needed to reassess my priorities and chart a new course forward. Despite outward successes, I felt a profound sense of emptiness and a longing for deeper fulfillment.

Amidst this period of introspection, I stumbled upon the book “Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself” by Joe Dispenza in which he talks about a critical point in our mid-30s.

“Psychologists tell us that by the time we’re in our mid-30s, our identity or personality will be completely formed… About 95 percent of who we are by midlife is a series of subconscious programs that have become automatic—driving a car, brushing our teeth, overeating when we’re stressed, worrying about our future, judging our friends, complaining about our lives, blaming our parents, not believing in ourselves, and insisting on being chronically unhappy, just to name a few.”

Does this mean that we are destined to keep our 35-year-old behaviors, attitudes, beliefs, emotional reactions, habits, skills, associative memories, conditioned responses, and perceptions forever?

The Good News

It absolutely does not.

What it does mean is that it takes intention to shift. It takes making the unconscious conscious, so you can decide who you want to be, what you want to do, or how you want to do it.

With newfound clarity and determination, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Here are five practical strategies that helped me navigate this transformative process:

1. Embrace Soul Searching

Take the time to delve into the depths of your inner being. Reflect on your values, aspirations, and dreams. Journaling can serve as a powerful tool for introspection, allowing you to gain insight into your true desires and motivations. Ask yourself probing questions and listen closely to the whispers of your heart.

2. Clarify Your Core Values

Identify the values that resonate most deeply with your authentic self. These are the guiding principles that shape your decisions and actions. Take stock of your beliefs and priorities, and strive to align your life with what truly matters to you. When your actions align with your values, you’ll experience a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose.

3. Make Decisive Choices

Embrace the power of choice and take decisive action in pursuit of your goals. Recognize that indecision is also a choice—one that can lead to stagnation and regret. Trust yourself to make bold decisions that align with your values and aspirations. Remember, the path to growth often lies outside your comfort zone.

4. Take Incremental Action

Break down your goals into manageable steps and take consistent action towards their attainment. Start small, and gradually build momentum as you progress towards your desired outcome. Celebrate each milestone along the way, and don’t be afraid to course-correct if necessary. Remember, progress is rarely linear, but every step forward brings you closer to your destination.

5. Trust in the Process

Cultivate trust in yourself and the journey ahead. Embrace uncertainty as an inevitable part of growth and transformation. Have faith that you possess the resilience and resourcefulness to overcome any obstacles that may arise. Trust that the universe is conspiring in your favor, guiding you towards the fulfillment of your dreams.

As you embark on your own journey of self-discovery, remember that change is not only possible but essential for personal growth. Embrace the unknown with courage and curiosity, knowing that each challenge you face is an opportunity for learning and expansion. By adopting these practical strategies and trusting in the process, you can navigate life’s transitions with grace and resilience.

So, dare to dream boldly, take decisive action, and trust in the journey ahead. Your path to self-discovery awaits, and the possibilities are endless.

You can find more from Jessica at Plaid For Women.