Contrast is Where Clarity Comes From
How do you achieve clarity in your life?
Clarity arises from understanding both what you don't want and, even more importantly, what you do want. This realization can be a subtle shift or a profound a-ha moment.
To identify what we don't want, we need to experience life, notice how we feel as things unfold, and develop personal preferences.
What is a contrasting experience?
As we experience life, we’ll naturally come upon contrasting experiences. A contrasting experience is essentially an experience that highlights the difference between two things. It's when you encounter something that is so different from what you're used to, that it makes you more aware of the qualities of both experiences.
These contrasting experiences can sometimes feel negative, but that's simply because our attention is on the undesirable. When you recognize this feeling, pause and ask yourself: "What do I want in this situation?" Allow the answer to surface. Then, deliberately shift your focus towards that desired outcome.
How do we move our focus to what we want?
Explore what you want in greater detail by writing it down. Visualize it: What would it look and feel like to have it? Consider:
Are there any ways this desired outcome is already present in your life, however small?
How can you introduce elements of what you want into your life, even in small ways?
Could discussing your desires in detail with a supportive friend, partner, or even yourself through journaling help?
What if a circumstance feels heavy?
Sometimes, a challenging situation can feel so overwhelming that it's hard to shift our focus away from what's wrong or unwanted. In these moments, a complete break can be incredibly helpful. This might mean physically leaving the room, taking some deep breaths, spending some time alone, or simply changing the subject.
Stepping away from the immediate conflict allows each person the space to regain perspective and clarity: What do I truly want here? Returning to the conversation when both parties are ready to focus on what they do want to create is where real growth and expansion occur. Experiencing contrast, and recognizing what isn't working, is an invitation to focus more clearly on what will work.
So, what is this contrast clarifying for you today? Where are you being called to grow? What is it you do want?
I believe the most important relationship to nurture is the one you have with yourself. If you found yourself here, it’s likely you do too.
Aligned + Kind was created as a place to support you in continuously using your powerful intuitive guidance system to create the life you desire. You’ll transition away from the things you think you have to do, to deliberately choosing and creating the things you deeply desire to do, the things that brighten our world. My 1:1 coaching is designed to help you align with your truest self and start living life in a way that feels good. If you're interested in learning more, book a call below to learn more about coaching with me.
