The Chaos of Transforming into Your Dream Self

Photo credit: David Muenker

If a caterpillar heard that one day it would become a beautiful, graceful butterfly, how would it respond? From its perspective in its earthbound, cylindrical, multi-legged body, would it be able to imagine itself flying? Could it envision itself high above the ground instead of plodding deliberately up plant stems?

If it could imagine that dramatic physical change, would it be willing to do what nature requires for the transformation to occur? Would it let itself be entombed in a cocoon with complete trust that at some magical time it would be free to take flight in its new beautiful expression?

Without conscious awareness, the caterpillar doesn't face those questions. Nature simply takes its course. We, however, regularly are challenged to make the conscious choice whether to take the bold step to change some aspect of our lives.

In some cases, we can envision the "butterfly" we can become, especially when we can see examples in people around us. That “butterfly” may be a published author, an engaging speaker, a strong and agile body or some other dream.

Even so, when we see proof that our dreams can be realized, we usually feel hesitant about pursuing them. Our protective egos dig in their heels to keep us earthbound like the caterpillar. It’s so much easier to keep doing what we know, even if it means trekking through mud and chomping on pesticide-covered leaves.

We would rather talk about our dreams than take the first bold steps toward manifesting them.

Yes, change can be unnerving, even chaotic and messy. Yes, transformation requires deep trust in something yet to materialize.

But when it comes to realizing a vision you hold for your life, you are your own change agent! Only you can take the steps—no matter how awkward, uncomfortable or difficult—that are required for your dream to materialize. Only you can undertake the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly.

Only you can decide to sprout wings and fly!   

At the time you create a vision or dream, you are a caterpillar. Do you believe you can become a beautiful butterfly flying high above the ground? Are you willing to find out?