History provides a powerful tool for guiding our next steps. We can look to our past and make more inspired decisions moving forward.
I attended a career-building seminar where the facilitator encouraged us to examine old jobs for clues about what to do next. What did we enjoy doing at work? What were we particularly skilled at? What did others recognize us for? What were our strengths? I reflected on the aspects of marketing that I genuinely loved - and was good at. I enjoyed talking to and training people, helping others figure things out to succeed in their roles, planning sales summits and events that brought people together to learn and connect, and finding creative solutions. Looking back now, I see how these elements have carried over into teaching yoga, coaching leaders to grow their careers, and planning wellness retreats. It’s funny how life continues to evolve based on what we learn!
There are many areas of life, not just a career, where we might want to experience something new. That’s really the first step - identifying where in life you have aspirations, goals, or desires for change. It might feel like a deep longing or a dream you've always held. Or it could be a more practical goal related to health, well-being, finances, home, etc. Once you identify an area to consider change, look back and think of a time when this area felt fulfilling. Are there clues in what you were doing then? For example, I felt strong and had a better body image when I worked out every morning before work. I’d get up at 5 a.m. four days a week, drive straight to the gym or go for a run. I felt great and was healthy. My life is different today (I no longer work in an office), but the clues remain. I worked out early, I scheduled the time, and it was a non-negotiable, with no room for excuses. I also prepped my workout gear the night before so I didn’t have to think about it in the morning. Plus my mindset was that this was "my time" rather than another chore I had to do. I can use this part of my history to inspire myself to more forward.
Another way to reflect on what you want is to think of a time when you felt envious of someone else. Now, envy is a tricky emotion, and I’m not encouraging it! But it happens and what if you could use it as a tool to understand your own needs better? Often we’re jealous of someone because we’re missing something similar in our own lives. For instance, when I feel envious of someone running multiple yoga retreats a year, all selling out, and they are crushing it on social media, it’s not because I wish them ill. It’s because I want to do the same. I can use that realization to motivate myself to make it happen. I can look at the parts of what they do successfully, especially the ones that get kind of under my skin with comparing. And use it as a growth tool for what I want to invest my own time and energy in.
Take some time to reflect. Look at your own history - what sparks joy, fulfillment, or inspiration? Notice the recurring themes, the moments that bring a smile, and the glimpses of envy that reveal what you truly desire. Growth is about peeling back layers to uncover what you love, value, and want to experience more of in life. History doesn’t just tell us where we’ve been - it can serve as a compass to guide us forward. Remember to keep an open mind and willingness to listen, reflect, and honor your past path as you step into your future.
