What Spiritual Growth Actually Feels Like(It’s Not What Social Media Shows)
Spiritual growth is often portrayed as peaceful, graceful, and serene.
Calm mornings.
Clear intuition.
Soft smiles.
A sense of being “aligned” all the time.
And sometimes… that is part of it.
But often, real spiritual growth feels very different.
It can feel confusing.
It can feel uncomfortable.
It can feel like things are falling apart before they come back together.
And when no one talks about that part, it’s easy to wonder if you’re doing something wrong.
Growth Doesn’t Always Feel Good
Spiritual growth doesn’t automatically bring ease.
It brings awareness.
And awareness can be unsettling.
You may start to notice:
patterns you used to tolerate
relationships that no longer feel safe
habits that once helped you cope but now feel heavy
emotions you’ve been avoiding because you finally have the capacity to feel them
This isn’t regression.
It’s expansion.
When awareness grows, what no longer fits becomes harder to ignore.
Why Discomfort Is Often a Sign of Growth
Growth asks you to live more honestly.
That can mean:
setting boundaries that feel awkward at first
saying no when you used to say yes
slowing down when you’re used to pushing through
feeling grief for parts of yourself that survived by staying small
None of that looks peaceful from the outside.
But it’s deeply meaningful work.
Spiritual growth isn’t about transcending your humanity.
It’s about inhabiting it more fully.
The Myth of Being “Aligned” All the Time
One of the most damaging spiritual myths is the idea that growth should feel calm and clear at every stage.
In reality, growth often includes:
uncertainty
emotional swings
doubt
moments of feeling ungrounded
Alignment isn’t a permanent state.
It’s something you return to — again and again.
And each return teaches you something new.
When Growth Feels Lonely
As you grow, you may notice that fewer people understand the choices you’re making.
You might feel:
less interested in surface-level conversations
more protective of your energy
less willing to explain yourself
This can feel isolating — even when you know you’re doing what’s right for you.
Growth doesn’t always bring immediate belonging.
Sometimes it brings discernment first.
And that’s okay.
A Gentle Reflection
Take a moment and ask yourself:
Where might discomfort in my life be asking me to grow instead of retreat?
There’s no need to act on the answer right away.
Just noticing is enough.
Closing Thoughts
Spiritual growth isn’t aesthetic.
It isn’t constant peace.
And it isn’t something you complete.
It’s a lived experience — one that includes messiness, honesty, and change.
Healing in real life means allowing growth to look the way it actually looks…
not the way it’s packaged online.
You’re not behind.
You’re not lost.
You’re learning how to live more truthfully — and that takes courage.
If you’d like support
If this resonates and you’re feeling called to explore support, I offer Reiki, sound meditation, and intuitive energy sessions through Elevated Karma Wellness. This work isn’t about reaching a higher state — it’s about creating safety, awareness, and grounding as you move through real-life growth.
Questions are always welcome, and private sessions can be scheduled when you feel ready. I also offer private group sessions for up to 10 people in my very private, tranquil studio in downtown Ephrata, PA — for those who don’t want to experience this work alone. If you are feeling ready to schedule a session click here. If you want to learn more about my services click here. If you are interested in booking a private group please contact me here.
