The Power of Inner Work: Transforming from Within

As vital as all topics are for this month, this week stands out as the most powerful and significant part of my personal transformation journey. 

Nikki: Transformation Strategist, Writer, Mother, Grandmother, Wife, Collaborator, Friend, or Mentor would not exist without years of spiritual, mental, and emotional struggles and victories. Our womanhood's existence is shaped by these aspects, which can either forge or fracture our being. Without our spiritual beings to guide and support us, we are merely adrift in a consuming river current, heading towards unknown destinations. We are, at our core, the spiritual, mental, and emotional reflections of our unique selves. 

Anyone familiar with severe depression or mental and behavioral health issues knows that life can literally be engulfed in darkness, making it difficult for one to navigate through the fog. Life feels like a dark, deep fog where one must either keep moving forward, overcoming fears of the unknown in the hope of finding light, or succumbing to the fog and fear, leading to desperation. 

This desperation may manifest as self-medication with alcohol, drugs, food, or toxic relationships. Dr. Cindy Trimm discusses the impact of a "sick" soul (mind, will, emotions) on one's life. If our inner selves are unhealed and chaotic, so will be our lives and relationships. This inescapable truth reveals that any attempt to mask our issues under a facade will eventually unveil the real essence of who we are. 

Throughout my journey, the scars of undiagnosed depression and unhealthy religious zeal have deeply impacted my identity. My narrative is incomplete without acknowledging God's mercy in preserving my life, mind, and soul, especially during times when thoughts of ending it all seemed rational and were supported by my circumstances. My story demands transparency about these moments. 

I am better today because my inner self is much healthier. 

How? The answer is neither simple nor easy, but it is honest and proven. 

Our God identity and self-identity influence our self-esteem. Dr. Myles Munroe often stated, "When we do not know the purpose of something, abuse is inevitable." Our reason for living is embedded within us, tied to God's will. 

Valuing ourselves leads to improved decision-making and a stronger spiritual connection and power. Supported by God's Word and Spirit, we become resilient against life's challenges. 

Identity and self-value foster self-acceptance, which in turn nurtures self-love. 

Embracing and loving ourselves as God does, with all our flaws, opens the door to healing, course correction, and reinvention. 

This may sound wonderful, and it is, but let's be clear: this is a journey. It's a process requiring steadfastness, even when the path ahead is unclear. It demands faith in God's healing and love, a determination to improve daily, and commitment because there will be times when you won't feel up to it. 

I encourage you to take this week's content to heart and reconnect with the Powerful Being who created us all, and with yourself, by pursuing inner healing. 

Be patient and kind to yourself. Extend the same grace and forgiveness to yourself that you readily give to others. 

I am and will always be a work in progress. What I've learned is that this journey is not meant to be walked alone. Falling in love unconditionally takes time. 

Remember, all lasting and true transformation originates from Above and within.