Don’t Hate the Valley Moments

“One see’s great things from the valley: only small things from the peak” – G. K Chesterton

I think it’s pretty safe to say most of us are facing some sort of challenge or goal that feels like climbing a mountain aiming to arrive at the peak and the rewards/benefits we desire. We are striving so hard to get to the top of the mountain anxious to get away from the difficult parts, the challenging moments, I call them the valley moments.

Most of us don’t like these difficult times in the journey, but did you ever stop and think about what we actually see from that mountaintop? Yes, it appears we can see everything, we can see far in the distance, a beautiful sight to behold most definitely. We see our accomplishments in achieving what we have been working for as we deeply exhale our relief. But if you think about being at the top of the mountain, most of the things you’ll see are actually smaller in size due to the vantage point. From far away houses look doll-sized, cars look like we could pick them up with two fingers, things appear to be so small compared to when we are up close near the bottom, and things are true to size. Often times we get to our goals, attain our dreams and forget about the beginning when we were unsure and afraid. We soon forget the moments of struggle and times we wanted to give up.

Don’t dismiss the valley moments, they are important for the journey.  The valley is where we can see everything for what it truly is. And while usually those moments can be difficult and uncomfortable, I’ve learned it’s important to look around, be present, and take note while we are in the deep difficult moments.

I know it’s easier said than done, I mean, who purposely stays in the valley moments? Who actually enjoys discomfort and difficulty? Usually we are trying to get out of the valley as quickly as possible and that is valid, I am in no way suggesting we build a home in the pit. I know, it’s uncomfortable, it’s icky, it’s tedious, even boring possibly. But maybe, just maybe, stop and look around so you can get the full view of what is happening around you. How are you feeling in the valley, how did you get to that point? How did you make your way out?

Take in the valley view, allow yourself to feel the feelings regardless of what they are and press through. Lock into the experience as a whole, writing it down may be a good idea. The valley is an important part of your journey, it is usually where the important work gets done. Allowing yourself to feel the feelings as you work through will more than likely help you appreciate things more when you do get to the goal aka the peak.  Don’t underestimate the valley view. Change your mindset, “this is rough but it’s going to be worth it!”

The valley moments. Often where transformation happens. Just think about how most flowers, plants, fruits, and vegetables come to bloom. Most of that work is done in the dirt, down below. In the soil is not a pretty place, but the work is being done and then voila: there’s the beautiful tulips, roses, and daisies. All the heavy work is happening in the valley.    

I find the transformation pages dealing with physical fitness on social media to be most interesting and inspiring for a few reasons.  But what usually stands out the most to me is the folks honest and open enough to tell their valley stories.  Folks that are not afraid to tell of the difficulties they faced in the initial stages and throughout the journey of improving their health. Challenged with different health issues, mental health obstacles, pain, addiction and unhealthy habits, sharing of the countless times they wanted to give up in the valley moments. They speak of the times they wanted to give up and walk away from their dreams because of the discomfort of the valley moments. I admire these influencers who openly share their experiences during the difficult times showing true authenticity. This raw truth is relatable to viewers and also a way of encouraging us to keep the charge going in pursuit of our goals.

The valley moments are a necessary part of the process of goal seeking.

My point here (in case I haven’t repeated it enough :)…) don’t knock the valley moments, don’t hold your breath trying to get through them as quickly as possible without having to endure any bumps or bruises. And yes, it’s easier said than done, I definitely try my best to avoid any sort of discomfort or difficult moments. There’s no glitz or glamor in the valley moments and I know that sometimes the moments can feel like forever, but I promise you it will be okay. Endure the bumps and scrapes that may come because believe it or not they are shaping you as you go, they are building character and adding to the experience. You may not understand why the challenges are happening in the moment, but I can pretty much guarantee as you move along time will reveal the reason the challenges happened. You will be able to see why the valley moments had to happen. Have a little faith that the experience can and will only make you stronger. 

What are some strategies you use to keep going when you hit a valley moment?

What are some of the lessons your valley moments have taught you?