In a world where self-improvement is all the rage, we often find ourselves scrutinising every petal, every leaf of our being, trying to fix what we perceive as flaws. But wait, hold your watering can! What if I told you that the solution isn't to trim, tweak, or tear ourselves apart, but to nurture the environment in which we grow? Yep, it's time to take a leaf out of Mother Nature's book and learn a thing or two from the flowers.
Picture this: you've got a beautiful bloom sitting on your windowsill, but instead of flourishing, it's looking droopier than a soggy daisy in a downpour. Do you start plucking petals, yelling, "He loves me, he loves me not"? No! You check the environment. Is it getting enough sunlight? Is the soil just right? Maybe it needs a little more water or a good talking to (hey, plants respond to positive affirmations too. It’s why my garden grows so beautifully!).
Now, let's apply this botanical wisdom to ourselves. When we're not blooming as brightly as we'd like, it's tempting to blame our inherent flaws. But what if, instead of picking ourselves apart like a bunch of neurotic botanists, we focused on nurturing our environment? Imagine the possibilities!
First up, let's talk about sunlight – metaphorically speaking, of course (unless you're a vampire, in which case, carry on). Sunshine is to flowers what positivity is to people. Surround yourself with good vibes, ditch the negativity like a wilted bouquet, and watch yourself bloom brighter than a field of daffodils in spring.
Take Sarah*, for example. She used to hang out with Debbie Downer and her band of pessimistic pals. Every conversation felt like a raincloud looming overhead. But one day, Sarah decided enough was enough. She traded those dreary gatherings for brunches with the Sunshine Squad – a group of radiant souls who lifted her spirits and reminded her that life is too short to dwell on the dark clouds. It can take time, to figure this out especially when you have been part of the doom and gloom for a long time!
Next on the agenda: soil. Just as flowers need nutrient-rich soil to thrive, we need a solid foundation to grow. That means surrounding ourselves with people who lift us up, challenge us, and support our growth. So long, toxic friendships! Hello, Garden of Greatness!
Meet Alex*. They used to hang out with a bunch of soil-sucking vampires who drained them of their energy and self-worth. But after some soul-searching (and a little help from a therapist named Dr. Green Thumb), Alex found their tribe – a group of like-minded individuals who watered their soul, not their doubts. With their newfound support system, Alex's roots grew deeper, and their confidence blossomed like never before.
But wait, there's more! Water – the life for plants and people alike. Hydrate yourself, both literally and metaphorically. Drink water like it's your job, and don't forget to nourish your mind and soul with knowledge, experiences, and maybe a sprinkle of self-care (cue the bubble bath and face masks and a delicious cuppa).
Take Juan*, for instance. He used to run on empty, pouring his energy into everyone and everything but himself. But one day, he realised that self-care isn't selfish – it's essential. So, he started carving out time for the things that filled his cup – whether it was reading a book, taking a yoga class, or indulging in a guilty pleasure (hello, Netflix binge). And wouldn't you know it? With a little TLC, Juan's wilted spirit transformed into a flourishing oasis of self-love. 
And let's not forget about space. Flowers need room to spread their petals and reach for the stars. Likewise, we need space to explore, make mistakes, and grow. So, step out of your comfort zone and into the wild unknown. Who knows? You might just discover a new species of fabulousness. Take my course that helps you really think about Stepping out of your comfort zone.
Maya* used to play it safe, sticking to the familiar like a sunflower facing the same direction day in and day out. But one day, she decided to take a leap of faith and try something new – skydiving. Yep, you heard that right – skydiving! And while her heart raced faster than a hummingbird's wings, she felt more alive than ever before. From that moment on, Maya embraced the unknown with open arms, letting her curiosity guide her on a wild and wonderful adventure.
Now, I know what you're thinking – easier said than done, right? Changing your environment is no walk in the park, especially when you've been rooted in the same spot for what feels like eons. But fear not, my fellow flora enthusiasts, for I come bearing tips, tricks, and a healthy dose of sass to kickstart your blossoming revolution.
First off, embrace change like it's the latest fashion trend. Change is inevitable, so you might as well rock it like a couture gown at Paris Fashion Week. Instead of fearing the unknown, dance with it. When you fight change, it hurts you in more ways than one – your mental and physical well being is at stake! Who knows? You might just discover some hidden talents along the way.
Next, practice radical self-love. Yep, I'm talking about loving yourself so fiercely that even the mirror can't handle your fabulousness. Treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and the occasional chocolate bar (because let's face it, chocolate makes everything better).
And last but not least, surround yourself with a garden of dreamers and doers. You know, the kind of people who water your soul, not your doubts. Cultivate relationships that inspire you, challenge you, and remind you that you're capable of blooming into something extraordinary.
So, my beautiful flower power friends, let's make it like a dandelion in a gust of wind and spread our seeds of change far and wide. Let's embrace our inner wildflowers and bloom like there's no tomorrow. Because when a flower doesn't bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower. And, it's high time we started tending to our gardens with a little more love and a whole lot of sunshine.
* Names have been changed to protect my clients!
