Navigating the Temptation to Quit

“Like the tree, we must find a way to deepen our roots if we want to rise tall and steady in this world.” – Iyanla Vanzant

At some points along our path of transformation and growth, as we set and meet our goals, the temptation to quit arises. For some, it is just a periodic part of the process. For others, the temptation comes when we are called to leave our comfort zone and level up, often right after we have finally settled into it.

In the beginning, many of us feel drawn to the possibilities of change, even when it feels a little scary.

There is often a sense of excitement, and we have plenty of support. But as time goes on and the seasons change, we may notice shifts in our own energy and in the energy of others, as they return their focus to the demands of their own lives.

I see this stage like a sapling tree, fresh and full of possibility.

The gentle winds sway us just enough to create friction, and that friction begins to strengthen the roots. As we begin to grow, we notice that the weather conditions are not always gentle. There are periods of heavy winds, bringing with them the feeling that we might be uprooted. While we know the winds are naturally unpredictable and part of the journey, how we choose to see them shapes our experience.

We may not be trees, but our bodies remind us that the principle is true.

Our own bodies are great teachers. Bones grow denser under stress, and without stress, they weaken. In the same way, when we face challenges, we grow stronger if we choose to stay the course.

It is easy to convince ourselves that pivoting, which can sometimes parallel quitting, is the best choice once the work intensifies.

Yet like a sapling, if we bend too quickly, we never give our roots the chance to grow strong. After all, we face many challenges beyond our control, so why not step away from the ones we can? The truth is that our soul will not let us. If there is growth and change we are meant to embody, reminders will meet us around every corner until we recommit.

On my personal path, I often turn to the ancient teachings. At the crossroads of giving up and continuing, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra II.1 provides inspiration: Tapas, Svadhyaya, Isvarapranidhana, translated as “Self-discipline, self-study, and surrender to the Divine are the path to yoga.”

These three principles provide a blueprint for continuing the journey and rooting into purpose. Tapas is discipline, like the stress that strengthens bones. Svadhyaya is self-study, which keeps us aligned and clear. Isvarapranidhana is surrender to the Divine source, which steadies us when the winds of change arrive.

May you find the strength to root deeper when the winds blow strong and the courage to trust the growth happening within you.

With love and gratitude,
Dana Andrea

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