Some Journeys Are Meant to Be Traveled Alone:

The Importance of Liminal Space in Personal Growth

Hey, my friend. I've written so much over the last few months as I've been navigating & processing one of the hardest seasons of my life. But for some reason, I just haven't had the heart to share my words. Well, now the time feels right. I truly hope these words bring comfort and find a soft place to land in your heart…

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Early March..

It's hard to say this, but some relationships aren't meant to be forever. Sometimes, you hit a crossroad in the journey of life and the people you thought would be there “forever,” just won't be able to make the journey with you. They're there for a season to encourage and inspire and to nourish you, but there are times when you have to pause, express your sincere thanks and move forward alone.

You see, life is a journey, and along the way, we encounter various experiences that shape who we are. Some of these experiences require us to embark on solo journeys that challenge us to step outside of our comfort zones and explore the unknown. Many times it feels intimidating to venture into the unfamiliar alone, but these solo journeys are incredibly transformative and life-changing.

When we travel alone, we enter what psychologists call a "liminal space." (Last week, Emily, a dear friend and reader shared this beautiful phrase with me, so I decided to learn more about it.) Liminal space is a transitional “space between” where we're neither in our old world nor our new one. It's a space of uncertainty, where we navigate the unknown and forge our own path forward. While liminal space can be uncomfortable, it's within these boundaries that our character is refined.

One of the most significant benefits of traveling alone in the journey is the opportunity to focus on our inner selves. Without the distractions of others, we can fully immerse ourselves in the journey, taking the time we need to reflect and grow. When we're alone, we're forced to confront our fears, narratives and doubts head-on, and we learn to take time to care for and support ourselves.

Traveling in the space between, allows us to release societal expectations and pressures. We can let go of the need to conform to others' expectations and focus on what TRULY matters to us. This kind of freedom is rare in our daily lives, where we're constantly bombarded with external influences.

Traveling through liminal space can be lonely, and there's always the risk of encountering “danger,” feeling misunderstood, or feeling stuck or lost. There's even a risk that you may get hurt, but I'm learning that the “risks” are often worth the rewards. One reward that I'm finding manifested in MY journey, is that “traveling alone” is forcing me to rely on my values and make decisions based on my intuition, (heart-space,) despite the odds, the popular belief or the “expectation.” In this season, being REAL with my truth is paramount.

I'm learning how to be stronger and wiser in a way that supercedes the natural boundaries of life. I'm learning the virtues of humility, trust, service and true compassion for others.

Traveling alone through the journey life carves out for you, is a walk of faith, but it also fosters deep fundamental shifts that will change the trajectory of your life.

Learn to embrace the solo journey my friend. The experience is ripe with opportunities to reflect on, shed and release outdated narratives and relationships as well as opportunities to expand and receive the gifts that are meant for YOU.

Stay focused. Stay honest. Stay open. You will always receive what you need…

A Few Good Questions:

How is liminal space represented in your life in this season?

• What is ending for you?

• What is beginning for you?

• What are you currently learning in this part of the journey?

I hope this served you in some way.

Take what you need and take good care,

As always, I'd love to hear YOUR thoughts. What showed up for you?

Share in the comments…

Nicole