Whether we realize it or not, we go through a lot of change throughout our lives. Different seasons pave the way for new versions of ourselves. There can be a great deal of beauty in this, particularly when it comes from a place of evolution. Contrarily, there’s a different type of change to be mindful of, as it doesn’t come from the best of influences—shapeshifting. Without further ado, let’s get into the distinction between these two, and why it matters!
Evolution vs. shapeshifting…
Simply put, evolution is a natural process of life that stems from a genuine change of heart and/or mind. It comes with time and experience, which intrinsically shape us. As we evolve, we become truer, more up-to-date versions of ourselves.
On the other hand, shapeshifting is a matter of contorting to fit into other people’s boxes. It may or may not be a conscious decision on our part, but there’s at least an underlying driving force to impress, appease, or avoid confrontation with others. Though these are both kinds of change, shapeshifting, unlike evolution, isn’t authentic change.
If we have to go through the growing pains of change in life, shouldn’t that change feel authentic, sustainable, and worthwhile? Yes, evolution can be partly inspired by others, but it isn’t driven by others…feel the difference between those two energies?
An example of evolution…
Amid a season of career uncertainty, you stumble upon a content creator on social media who shares their job and lifestyle online. It resonates with you, and you realize that their career seems to have a lot of the qualities you’ve wanted for your own. You do more research, which further solidifies your decision to give this career path a try.
In this case, yes, someone else inspired your decision, but it had nothing to do with how that person, or anyone else, would perceive you. It had everything to do with you genuinely wanting to go for it, for your own potential fulfillment and success.
An example of shapeshifting…
Your interests or career aspirations seem to change based on who you’re talking to or what image you’re trying to portray. Whether to join the “in” crowd, impress a prospective partner, or show an ex that you’ve changed, chances are, the goal isn’t accomplished anyway, as the inauthenticity takes center stage.
The bottom line…
If the shapeshifting example sounds like something you’ve ever tried, don’t worry…a decision stemming from inauthenticity doesn’t deem you inauthentic. We’ve all made decisions that haven’t come from the best of places, and they don’t have to define us. What really matters is how we learn and grow from it.
On that note, if shapeshifting has taught you anything, it’s probably that molding to fit (or defy) other people’s expectations isn’t nearly as gratifying or effective as it seemed going into it. If your desired result didn’t unfold, or it didn’t stick for long, that’s all the more evidence that authenticity takes the cake. The right people for you will ask nothing different of you than your true self.
On the other hand, if you’re in a season of evolution, congratulations! Each time you come a little more into your own is incredibly exciting and liberating. Enjoy the process of finding yourself all over again. Now that’s going to attract your best relationships yet!
Leave a Reply