When you look back at your past struggles, you realize how far you've come, in terms of individual growth. Every challenge overcome, each lesson learned, has shaped you into who you are today.
And when you look forward, you realize how far you still have to go, especially when you see the vast potential that lies ahead, the goals yet to be achieved and/or the dreams waiting to be realized.
Either way, there's always something to look forward to and something to be grateful for irrespective of which "time direction" you choose to look.
In terms of life, does it get better or worse with time?
This is a question that has puzzled many.
I think there's somewhat of a split perspective that the more we grow older, we start to understand ourselves and the world around us more deeply.
We gain wisdom from experience and our perspective generally broadens.
With this understanding comes the realization of life's complexities and uncertainties.
To contend with the realities of aging, the loss of loved ones, and the inevitability of change is a humbling journey that deepens our appreciation for life and tests our ability to let go.
This ability to let go is more or less another double-edged sword. Greater insight paired with greater awareness of life's challenges.
Progressive Overload
For example, I understand that from here on out life could be generally hard for me, but this hardness doesn't necessarily translate as things getting worse for me, in the sense that I am building resilience all through that process.
In some ways, it's akin to progressive overload, which can be defined as gradually increasing the stress on the body to stimulate growth.
The difference is that this incremental load isn't under your control to regulate per se, life doesn't always let you choose when or how much stress to take on.
And the similarity is that you indeed get stronger or more resilient with experience.
Obviously, our perception of whether life gets better or worse with time largely depends on our mindset.
For the most part, it's a subjective feeling that could be tipped towards a positive outlook instead of a negative one through;
- Cultivating gratitude and optimism can significantly influence how we experience life's journey.
- Surrounding ourselves with supportive people can make a tremendous difference.
- Community and connection are vital in helping us navigate life's uncertainties and celebrate its victories.
With all of that said, I think it would be foolish not to acknowledge the uncertain aspects of life.
"Foggy Sunrise"
I think realistically, it's also obvious that the future is largely unpredictable, and while we can plan and strive, there will always be elements beyond our control, sometimes more that we anticipate in the present moment.
This may seem like another paradox of existence. But interestingly, this uncertain aspects of life can also be exhilarating. In that, it's what makes life a colorful adventure, full of surprises and unexpected possibilities.
I guess the evidence leans toward life being a mix of growth and hardship, with uncertainty adding an element of both challenge and excitement.
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