We Were Never Meant To Be Mild

There's a card that sits on my desk, gifted to me by one of my dearest friends. It was a gesture of love and encouragement when I was launching my business—a time when I had no idea what I was doing (and, if I’m being honest, some days I still don’t). I often turn to that card when I find myself on the couch, laptop in hand, deep in thought, trying to remind myself why I’m doing this again, or grappling with a particularly challenging problem or client engagement.

Today, as I reflected on the changing colors of the leaves, I found myself doing some internal reflection as well. It’s funny how nature’s transitions mirror our own—how the turning of leaves marks not only a change in season but also a shift in mindset. We’re now in the final quarter of the year, a time to acknowledge the journey we’ve been on and the ways we’ve evolved.

During a recent coaching call with a client who started her own nonprofit at just 20 years old, I was struck by her current inner struggle, now in her 30s: “Did I take on too much? Should I keep going? Do I have what it takes?” It’s a question I think many of us face—am I good enough? How dare I be brave and intentional? Who do I think I am to tackle this?

I had to take off my coaching hat for a moment and remind her of something we all need to hear: "You are more than enough." What amazed me most wasn’t her list of accomplishments but her emotional intelligence and self-awareness. At her core, she’s driven not only to be better for her business but also to be a stronger leader for her team. That’s the kind of growth that requires deep reflection, and yes, it’s uncomfortable. But as I reminded her, growth is supposed to be uncomfortable.

As we wrapped up our call, she reflected on something I said at the beginning of our session: that the role of a coach is to provide accountability and remind clients that true growth often comes from discomfort. She smiled and said, “I knew we’d be a good fit when you said that.” It reminded me again of that card I cherish—"We Were Never Meant to Be Mild."

Whether we’re just beginning or years into our journey, we must remember that discomfort is a sign of growth, and we were never meant to take the easy route. We are here to evolve, to challenge ourselves, and to push beyond what feels comfortable.

As we move through this season of change, let’s remind ourselves that it’s okay to feel unsure. It’s okay to not have all the answers. What’s important is that we continue forward, not with mildness, but with intention, bravery, and the understanding that we are meant for so much more. After all, 'We Were Never Meant To Be Mild.'