Dear Sarah,
I’ve been feeling not like myself lately. I feel stagnant. I don’t know what’s going on. How do I get back to feeling like myself again?
Signed,
Where did I go?
Dear Where Did I Go,
I love your question. The quality of our life is determined by the quality of our questions. So, let’s make sure you’re asking high quality questions.
The question you ask in your sign off of “where did I go?” I think is not helping you at all. It has this hint of shame, like you’re doing something wrong because you don’t feel your best. I also hear fear that this is a new permanent state of being, and that’s causing some panic or worry for you.
What if nothing has gone wrong? What if this is just a season of your life and it’s temporary?
When it feels like we’re not at our best, you’re given an opportunity to notice the contrast.
Think about a black and white photo. We need both the black tones and the white tones (and all the shades of grey) in order to get a clear picture. This time period is giving you a contrast of how you feel when you’re at your best and when you’re not.
Finding the answer to your question is about getting clarity about yourself. Grab your journal and let’s do some self-reflection.
Use these journal prompts:
What is different about me right now compared to when I’m at my best? List all the differences. Look at your energy level, your activity level, your focus, the stories you’re telling yourself, the thoughts you’re thinking, your beliefs, your feelings, your actions and habits. List out as much as you can.
How is this low energy moment perfect for me right now?
What is the meaning I am assigning to this low energy moment? Is that helping me or setting me back further?
If I could fully love and accept myself even when my energy is low, how would I show up for myself?
When I’m at my best, what am I telling myself about myself?
These questions will allow you to deeply connect with yourself. Invest this time and energy in getting to know yourself.
Because you are always valuable and worthy. Going through a moment that feels stagnant does not diminish your worth or value. That is inherent. You don’t have to do anything to be valuable and worthy. You just are because you’re a human being.
The more you learn about yourself, the more you show yourself that you’re inherently worthy no matter what. And the funny thing is that you come out of these low seasons faster and more naturally when you accept where you are and embrace your own worthiness no matter what.
PS. Do you have a question that you’re struggling with? Send them my way and you might be featured in a future column! Send your questions to [email protected]
PPS. Sometimes what we need to steer out of a low energy cycle is an inspiring vision for our future. Want to create your vision while sipping a custom cocktail and having a ton of fun? Join me and Haley Shubert at the Vision Board Workshop with Bespoke Cocktails on July 20th at the Palisades in Towson. Get your ticket here.
Send your question to [email protected]
About Sarah
Sarah Curnoles is a certified life coach who helps smart, self-aware people get unstuck and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. With a background in personal development, creativity, and emotional resilience, Sarah guides clients through major life transitions, tough decisions, and moments of self-doubt. Her coaching blends compassionate truth-telling with practical tools to help you stop spinning and start creating the life you actually want. Learn more about Sarah on her website www.sarahcurnoles.com or check out her podcast Breakup Pep Talks.
