In three different conversations this week, the inner striver came up. I was fascinated by the use of this word and the feeling that was being conveyed. Essentially, your inner striver is telling you to push harder, go faster, get it all done.
Personally, I’m super grateful for my striver. It is full of good ideas that it goes after with gusto, gives me confidence and courage, and has led to some of my favorite accomplishments.
The challenge with our inner striver is that it doesn’t play well with others. It is domineering and impatient with the parts of us that want to rest, create, or simply be. It’s not good at slowing down for things like connection, presence, and healing.
What I heard in the three unrelated conversations about the inner striver was a desire to make peace with it. To appreciate the value it brings without sacrificing the other parts of the self. As we begin the transition to striver season, let’s remember,
“Nature does not hurry, yet all is accomplished.” – Lao Tzu
We can invite the striver in when we need it, remembering it is only one important part of many.
