I resigned, I chose myself
That was one of the most powerful healing moments in my life.
I resigned.
I was terrified and I chose myself.
For a decade, I was entrenched in the world of environmental engineering, driven by a desire to contribute positively to the planet. Yet, as time went on, it became increasingly clear that instead of being a part of the solution, I was inadvertently contributing to the problem. The environment I worked in was toxic—not just in terms of environmental impact, but for my well-being.
Long hours were the norm, and the pressure to perform led to severe burnout. I experienced not one, but multiple burnout episodes, both major and minor, which I failed to acknowledge until they reached critical points.
The constant stress affected my mental and emotional health, making me feel trapped in a cycle I couldn’t escape. My identity was so closely linked to my job that the idea of changing careers felt impossible. This struggle was particularly acute for me as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), whose emotional depth and empathy often felt like burdens rather than gifts.
Amidst the turmoil, Reiki emerged as my sanctuary. This practice offered me a much-needed refuge from the chaos. Every night, I dedicated time to self-Reiki, which brought me a profound sense of comfort and connection. The warm, soothing energy of Reiki provided relief from the overwhelming stress and helped me navigate through the fog of burnout.
As I continued with my Reiki practice, something transformative occurred. I began to reconnect with my authentic self, creating a space of clarity and peace even within the confines of a stifling work environment. Reiki’s ability to realign my energy was a beacon of hope, showing me that there was more to life than the endless cycle of work-related stress.
However, despite the relief Reiki offered, I struggled with internal resistance. My mind, entrenched in survival mode, was terrified of the unknown. Living in a foreign country added to my anxiety about leaving the security of my job. The fear of stepping into the unknown and the uncertainty of my future were daunting. This fear was a common challenge for many HSPs, who often feel overwhelmed by change and uncertainty. The comfort of the familiar, even if it is unhealthy, can be hard to let go of.
One pivotal summer evening in 2017, while I was at Jericho Beach enjoying a picnic and the soothing presence of the ocean, I experienced a moment of profound clarity. As I watched the full moon rise, a gentle voice in my head asked, “Why are you not leaving?” This question triggered a surge of anger and grief. I felt trapped by my responsibilities, my sense of duty, and my own fears. My emotional outburst—admitting that I was scared—was both painful and liberating. It was in this moment of raw honesty that I found the courage to make a decision that had been long overdue.
That night, I made the life-changing decision to resign from my job. The immediate aftermath was both exhilarating and terrifying. Within a week, I began a part-time position at Banyen Books and Sound, a spiritual bookstore that resonated deeply with me. I also enrolled in an integrative healing energy course, which further aligned with my newfound purpose. This transition marked the beginning of a profound transformation.
The realignment I experienced after leaving my toxic job was nothing short of miraculous. Opportunities seemed to present themselves effortlessly, guiding me towards a more fulfilling path. I came to see that my burnout was not a failure but a signal from the Universe, urging me to reconnect with my true self. Reiki played an instrumental role in this journey, helping me shift from a head-centric approach to a heart-centered existence.
For HSPs, who often struggle with burnout and a disconnection from their authentic selves, Reiki offers a powerful tool for healing and realignment. The practice helps in managing emotional overwhelm and provides a pathway to reconnect with one’s inner self. If you’re feeling stuck in a situation that drains your energy and disconnects you from your true self, Reiki can guide you through the transition from fear and resistance to embracing your authentic purpose.
Embarking on a journey of self-reconnection requires more than just personal effort; it involves building a supportive network and committing to self-care. Here’s how you can begin your journey toward authenticity and fulfillment:
Seek a Supportive Community: Engaging with supportive communities can provide the encouragement and inspiration you need. For me, Banyen Books and Sound became a vital source of support and guidance. Look for groups and spaces that resonate with your values and offer a nurturing environment.
Lean on Your Friends: Surround yourself with friends who genuinely support your growth and transformation. True friends will recognize and celebrate the changes in you, even when it’s challenging for you to see them yourself. Their encouragement can provide the emotional boost needed to continue on your path.
Deepen Your Reiki Practice: Immersing yourself in Reiki practice can be transformative. Allow Reiki to guide you through your journey, helping you reconnect with your heart and navigate the path to your authentic self. Trust in the healing process and surrender to the Universe’s guidance.
Embrace the Fear: It’s natural to feel afraid of change, especially for HSPs who often struggle with uncertainty. Acknowledge your fears and use them as a catalyst for growth. Recognize that fear is a part of the journey, and facing it can lead to profound personal transformation.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a central part of your routine. HSPs often neglect their own needs while focusing on external demands. Prioritize activities that nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This can include regular Reiki sessions, meditation, and activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Reconnecting with your authentic self may be challenging, but with Reiki as your guide, you can navigate the path from burnout to alignment. Embrace your sensitivity as a gift, and let it lead you to a life of authenticity and fulfillment. Your journey from fear and resistance to embracing your true self is possible and can be profoundly rewarding.
Realign to your authentic self with Reiki HERE.
With love and support,
Fleur
