Defining Transformation

One day I found myself getting curious about the actual definition of the word transformation. When I Googled it, I found this: "a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance; an important event like getting your driver's license, going to college, or getting married can cause a transformation in your life. A transformation is an extreme, radical change."

I took heed with this definition as I don't believe transformation is extreme or radical. I believe true transformation is a process that leads to sustainable growth and change. The examples in the definition reinforce this idea. Getting your driver's license, going to college and getting married are all results of a transformation process.

Before you get your license, you earn your permit, take driving lessons, study vehicle codes and laws, and pass rigorous tests. When you go to college you attend classes, study, take exams, discover new areas of interest, meet new people, etc. before you receive the diploma.  Before you get married, you spend a lot of time getting to know someone, sharing your values, desires, etc. You get engaged, and you may even live with the person before actually "tying the knot".

Each of these examples is a transformation process filled with struggles to walk through, triumphs to celebrate and everything in between. We aren't the same person when we first get behind the wheel as the person who achieves the license. We have been changed by the process of learning to drive.

With personal wellness transformation, the process involves a deeper understanding of who you are. It is a never-ending, constantly evolving process of learning, re-learning, letting go, and letting in. It is a self-centered process filled with curiosity, gratitude and compassion. It is a process of putting on your oxygen mask first. It is a process of self-awareness that once begun will take you on a journey so empowering and meaningful, it will change every area of your life in the most beautiful and profound (and, perhaps, radical) ways.

As human beings, transformation is inevitable. The fun happens when we decide to actively participate in the process; to embrace the experience and play.

The choice is yours to make. What will you decide to do?

For me, John Fogerty sings the words in my heart: "Put me in coach! I'm ready to play today!" Perhaps your heart sings these words too?

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