How do you know you are evolving? This question was an inquiry by my client during a nurse coaching session. Life change begins in consciousness. The potential for change can be scary and uncomfortable, and uplifting and freeing all at the same time. Some choose to embrace change while others resist.

Evolving is about opening our awareness, tapping into our inner wisdom, and developing as a conscious human being. The philosopher, George Ivanovich Gurdjieff stated, “The evolution of man is the evolution of his consciousness, and consciousness cannot evolve unconsciously. The evolution of man is the evolution of his will, and cannot evolve involuntarily.”

Once our awareness opens, it does not close. We begin to awaken to who we are, and realize we cannot go back to the way we were before. A shift in our perceptions and beliefs occurs. A new reality emerges, and we see things differently. This growth involves new thoughts, feelings, and expectations. We evolve in becoming the person we were destined to be and discover our true essence.

Signs We are Evolving 

1. We recognize daily self-care as a vital part of our life. We realize that everything coming through the five senses affects the body, mind, and emotions. To that end, we are mindful of what we eat, see, taste, smell, and touch. Daily meditation, eating fresh, healthy foods, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep is a way of life.
2. We value silence and meditation to mastery the mind, tap into our source of creativity and intuition, and connect on a deeper level with our spiritual self. Setting aside time for contemplation allows us to have a deeper understanding of the events in our life.
3. We choose to spend more alone time in self-reflection and deepening our personal and spiritual growth. We prefer quiet activities like journaling, meditation, yoga, qigong, and tai chi. We choose simplicity over complexity.
4. We don’t participate in melodramas or impulsively react to life’s stressors. We can remain calm amid the storm. Challenges are opportunities with lessons to be learned.
5. We stop judging others and accepting them for who they are and not try to change them. Each person is on a unique path with different experiences and lessons. We reach out with love and compassion.
6. Others’ comments and opinions do not bother us. We let things roll off our back and find humor in life’s little quirks. We don’t take ourselves so seriously.
7. We are more in tune with our feelings and in-charge of our emotions. We are more self-aware about our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and lifestyle choices.
8. We are more consciously aware of our natural surroundings with a greater appreciation, knowing we are not separate from it. We respect, honor, and help to preserve our natural resources.
9. We feel a sense of gratitude and love of life. We take nothing for granted and are thankful for the time we have and use it sensibly.
10. We have found a purposeful and meaningful path to express our unique gifts and talents. Our work is joyful. We are confident in what we want and know we are responsible for and in control of what happens in our life.
11. We choose to engage with like-minded, positive people who share similar values. We release relationships that do not support our highest good in alignment with our divine purpose.
12. We are flexible and invite change. We find taking risks are new adventures for growth that can be both exhilarating and frightening, yet we forge ahead.

Now, reflect on what changes you’ve noticed in yourself over the past year. Recall the shifts that occurred in your perceptions and the outcomes of those changes. What insights do you have about your growth?

Note: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with your doctor first before starting any new practices or health programs.

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