These things can happen so fast.

A comment or a look that sends us straight back to being a lonely 7 year old getting picked on at school.

A well-meaning touch that doesn’t feel quite right in our bodies and suddenly we’re spewing anger way out of proportion for what’s here today.

These things can happen slowly, too.

A client we signed a contract with even though we had doubts, and now it’s 18 months later and the project still hasn’t kicked off.

A breakup that’s unfurling itself through an achy, endless heartache season.

The things are all around us, every day.

These things are the things of life: challenges, obstacles.

You might even call them problems.

Or, you might call them AFGO: Another Fabulous Growth Opportunity.

Actually, you might not use the word “fabulous” there.

You might let yourself feel the hurt of it, the frustration of not getting what you want, of still struggling with that thing after so much work.

You might let yourself be simultaneously angry and open to grace.

In cases like that, you might sigh and say with resignation, “Another f*cking growth opportunity.”

Either way — f*cking or fabulous — you are labeling the thing with a reminder: This too can have value.

I don’t have to like it, but I can learn to use it.

To growth,

Rachel

PS – Speaking of growth… sometimes it’s fun and you seek it! For example, the next StoryBrand Livestream event is coming up on July 18-19, 2023. If you’re struggling to talk or write about your business in a way that gets results, this two-day online workshop could be just the ticket to more clarity, sales, and impact. In addition to stellar teaching from the StoryBrand team, you get live guidance, personal from a certified StoryBrand Guide for 2 days as you refine your messaging. I won’t be hosting a coaching group this time, but many other spectacular guides will be. Learn more and register here!

This post was originally sent as an email to the Magic Words of the Week newsletter list. Every week, I share reflections on a word, quote, or phrase I think will help you thrive in your life’s work.