From the series: The Upside of the Downside
After last week’s introduction, I’ve been reflecting on how life often doesn’t ask. It simply acts. And sometimes, it acts by turning down the volume.
A few weeks ago, I found myself unusually quiet. Writing slowed. Conversations paused. Even replying to messages felt like a stretch. I wasn’t withdrawing. I was just muted. Not out of sadness or fear, but from an instinct to protect space for myself.
Over time, I’ve learned that being on mute isn’t a sign of fragility. It’s often a way of letting your inner self catch up. A space to breathe. To observe. To stop reacting and start noticing what’s really going on, internally and externally.
I’ve experienced my share of ups and downs over the years, both in life and in work. Some seasons felt like everything was moving forward. Others felt like I was running in place or even falling behind. But through it all, I’ve come to this realization: the more I’ve faced, the less I fear.
These days, when something unexpected happens, a plan fails, a challenge lands in my lap, or momentum fades, I no longer panic. I simply take a breath and think, I’ve seen worse. This won’t break me. It might even strengthen me.
Because the truth is, fear loses its power when you’ve already walked through it. That quiet confidence becomes your inner resilience. It’s not loud or showy. It just shows up, calmly.
So when life puts you on mute, maybe it’s not silencing you. Maybe it’s giving you time to hear yourself more clearly.
Two questions I’m sitting with this week:
– What have your past challenges quietly prepared you for?
– How can silence become a source of personal strength, not retreat?
I’ll see you next week for Episode 2.
Warm wishes,
