It’s been years since your first spiritual awakening, but it’s giving amateur. It’s time to do something about spiritual “regression”.

Who Says You Have to be a Guru?

We start many journeys with aspirations of crossing the finish line as a master of whatever path we choose. This can be realistic for many things... but rarely is this the best approach when embarking on a new spiritual journey. As spiritual understanding of the world develops, it is often revealed just how little we actually know. And, the more spiritually attuned we become, the more we need a safe space to catch our breath. Spend enough time seeking spiritual knowledge and you’ll realize that the only thing owed to you on the journey is humility and ego death. It has never been about knowing everything and waking up one day as Madam Cleo. But you knew that already! Recognize when you feel you have taken steps back on your spiritual journey.

Now take a minute, do you feel like you’re backpedaling because you can’t see tangible progression? Or do you feel like you have truly lost your way? Even if you have lost your way, you know you have the tools to recenter yourself on your path (just as you have done before). So, how can you conquer feelings of “regression”, that may not be regression at all? It starts with knowing exactly what you want to get out of your spiritual journey.

You Need More, But What?

Let’s take it back, wayyyy back. Do you remember your very first spiritual calling? Think back to the first time you discovered that spiritual growth is the key to the life you want. Our first spiritual awakening is one that often brings us inspiration, empowering us to do things differently and get the life we deserve. We all remember the excitement of gearing up for the rebrand of a lifetime. Somewhere between the vision boards, prayer, releasing rituals and full moon readings we find ourselves swimming in an ocean of exercises, new habits and everchanging belief systems. But like all things in life, a spiritual awakening doesn’t last forever. The new and exciting tips and tricks may lose their charm. The messages stop hitting the same and we can easily feel like the journey that once provided us comfort, has left us seeking more.

It’s Time to be Less Critical of Your Progress.

The hardest truth to accept is that a more spiritual life doesn’t equal a life without pain, mistakes, conflict and challenges. When the magic of a spiritual awakening fades, we are faced with different struggles and new realities. We expect ourselves to be unphased by the same issues that once caused us pain and hardship. It’s as if we set ourselves up to be disappointed with the realization that all the tricks in the world can’t take away our humanity.

If we take a closer look at the spiritual “regression” we feel, we may find disappointment, confusion, and emotional burnout. When real life hits us hard, our spiritual strength allows us to ride the wave and survive the aftermath (even if we barely make it out!). Spiritual fortitude is not an immunity from pain but the armor needed to continue to keep pushing. Don’t measure your progress on your journey by how unaffected you can be by life. Take note of the fact that you are still here and still trying despite all you have been up against.

Do Yourself a Favor.

Redefine your strengths and spiritual goals. View who you are through a different lens. Where can you see the growth in your life? Where is your proof that you are getting closer to who, what and where you want to be? Dig deep enough and you’ll find it. If comparison is the thief of joy, its partner in crime is a harsh inner critic. There is no better investment you’ll make than choosing to invest in yourself with compassion, understanding and acceptance. Let your spiritual journey help you see yourself clearly and coach yourself to a new belief system, one that allows for patience and grace as you travel along your path.

Let the work you’ve done prepare you for what life throws your way and guide your next steps. Don’t forget the skills you’ve gained when trouble comes your way, remember that you’ve already been training to face the next storm with strength! Don’t ever count yourself out, do yourself a favor and put your gifts to work.

Final Thoughts.

Trust that your journey is ongoing and complex, not just a string of good or bad moments.

Give yourself more props and less criticism for the spiritual progress you have made.

Support yourself by using what you have learned along the way, you absolutely have what it takes to conquer any challenge.