bold changes can still feel cozy.

I’ve always been intimidated by big changes. I like my days to feel cozy and predictable—so building a business on my own wasn’t exactly at the top of my list, ever.

But at the end of last year, what was supposed to be the safe option didn’t feel so safe anymore.

I had carefully researched the company I was part of—values, financials, all of it—and still, I got laid off. It happened out of nowhere—I didn’t even have time to back up my work.

And because all my plans had already been turned upside down, I figured I might as well add to the mess.

I signed up for courses and trainings that felt very out of my comfort zone and hopped on a plane to a less familiar place for a few months.

And somehow, all of that got me there—crafting a business plan for my own coaching practice. I couldn't have done it otherwise.

For me, this is proof that even super cautious, cozy-feelings-loving people like me can take on big, scary changes.

We might need a big shake to get started and a little more support to work through all the worries, but we still make it happen.

And this isn’t just about work. I wish I’d learned sooner that just because something doesn't come naturally to me, of feels uncomfortable—it doesn’t mean it’s not meant for me.

So, here’s what I wish for everyone next year: that we can give ourselves a bit more credit and take a chance on the things that we’d really like to do, even if they sound scary at first.

about the author:

Hi there! I'm Silja, the founder of the wholesome growth club, an inclusive hub for career coaching with a soft spot for introverts and perfectionists. I’m an Amsterdam-based expat, but I love connecting with people worldwide. With a background in recruiting, I know the struggle of crafting a career path that feels truly yours. At the wholesome growth club, we're all about fostering sustainable growth, meaningful engagement, and authentic connections. Our blog is dedicated to making coaching accessible and sharing insights to approach work and life with an extra dose of confidence, slow productivity, and self-compassion. If you are curious to make things happen for yourself, get in touch—we offer personalized coaching journeys that will get you closer to your (dreamy) goals in no time.