December 14th, 2024

Breaking the Norm to Make Progress

Hey friends,

“Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible.”

It’s one of those statements that feels bold and rebellious, but when you really think about it, it’s also deeply true. How can we expect to create something new if we keep doing things the same old way?

I’ve always had a complicated relationship with “the norm.” There’s a comfort in it, isn’t there? Following the familiar path feels safe, predictable, easy. But the truth is, every time I’ve grown, it’s been because I stepped off that path.

For me, breaking the norm has looked like taking risks that didn’t make sense to other people. Like deciding to move to Brazil with my dogs, even though it wasn’t the “logical” thing to do. Or choosing to pursue a life that feels authentic to me, even when it doesn’t fit neatly into society’s expectations.

But let’s be honest—deviating from the norm isn’t always easy. It can feel scary, lonely, and uncertain. There have been so many times when I’ve questioned myself, wondering, “What if this doesn’t work? What if I fail?”

And yet, every time I’ve taken that leap, I’ve learned something. Even when things didn’t go as planned, I grew in ways I never could have if I’d stayed comfortable.

That’s the thing about progress—it’s messy. It’s not a straight line, and it’s definitely not always easy. But it’s worth it. Because when we step outside the norm, we open ourselves up to possibilities we never even imagined.

Maybe it’s trying something new, speaking up for what you believe in, or letting go of a version of yourself that no longer fits. Whatever it looks like, progress always starts with a little bit of discomfort—a willingness to say, “What if there’s a better way?”

So, here’s my question for you: What’s one area of your life where you could break away from the norm? Maybe it’s a habit, a mindset, or even a dream you’ve been too afraid to pursue. What’s one small step you can take today to deviate, to try something different, to embrace progress?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s talk in the comments or message me—I want to know what breaking the norm looks like for you.

Thanks for being here with me today, for being brave enough to consider a different way forward. Here’s to progress, in all its messy, beautiful forms.

Until next time,
Marjoly 🌿