The Paradox of Life: Growing Down To Grow Up

Do you know the whole “growing up” thing we were told since childhood?

Yes, right?

And guess what?

It’s not about climbing any fancy ladder; it’s about digging deep into your guts.

To embrace the paradox of life, you must grow down, not up.

Growing down is about delving into your fears and coping mechanisms and understanding who you are without all the conditioning from the outside world.

• Who are you?

• What sets your soul on fire?

• What makes your heart race with joy?

• And, oh, those fears that sometimes grip you so tightly - what messages do they carry about your inner self?

The ways on how to grow down are egregiously illustrated in James Hillman’s “The Soul’s Code” book.

He describes four ways to achieve it:

1. Your Body

Aging is not a fight; it’s a partnership with gravity. Embrace it. Your body is your vessel through which you experience this world, so treat it right.

2. Your Parents

Like it or not, you came from somewhere, a family tree of twisted and beautiful branches. They are part of your story. Embrace your roots and acknowledge the peculiarities and complexities. Learn from your family’s history, and let it guide you to improve yourself.

3. Your Place

Where you are matters as much as who you are. Find a place that resonates with your soul, and live it up. Embrace the duties and customs of your chosen home; they ground you in your journey.

4. Your Circumstances

Life deals you a hand, and sometimes the cards seem stacked against you. However, it’s not about the cards you’re dealt but how you play the hand. Adapt and find your way to thrive despite the challenges.

In a nutshell

So, here is your no-nonsense advice: Wanna grow up? Start to grow down.

• Dive deep into your essence

• Respect your body

• Honor your roots

• Love your chosen place

• Conquer your circumstances with resilience.

Embrace life, live it, and become the most authentic and fulfilled version of yourself.