Wherever You Go, There You Are: The Hidden Constant Behind Your Challenges
April 21, 2025 · 2 min read
“Hawaii is a state of mind.”
The first time I heard this phrase, I was in Hawaii. I was there for a retreat, and I was going to stay for 5 weeks.
What feels like a dream trip for many was, for me, more of a task than true enjoyment.
First, I’d never dreamed of going to Hawaii. Second, I’m not really a beach person. Third, I was in a terrible state. Honestly, it had all the ingredients to be a complete disaster.
I don’t even remember the conversation, I just remember when my husband said: “Hawaii is a state of mind.”. I was in so much resistance, I couldn’t even take it in at the time.
Fast forward four years, and that phrase changed my life. It became the foundation of what I now share with my clients: “You bring yourself wherever you go.”
If you don’t like your boss today, chances are, you’ll switch jobs, and still not like your new boss.
I’ve seen it happen over and over again with jobs, relationships, friendships, etc.. As humans, we tend to repeat the same patterns, often without even realizing it.
If you’re facing a challenging situation that keeps repeating itself, pause for a moment and ask yourself: “What’s the common denominator?”
If you’re honest, you might realize that it’s YOU. And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s empowering. Because it means the change doesn’t depend on anyone else. It starts with you.
The best part? Knowing that Hawaii is a state of mind, I get to be there all the time now. It’s that joy, that fulfillment we only find from within. And the beauty of it? Because it comes from the inside, no one can take it away. No matter the circumstances, no matter what’s happening around me, I can feel the Hawaiian feeling anywhere, anytime.
It’s important to remember that this is a process. Be patient with yourself and honor your own pace.
One step at a time, in the right direction, is more than enough.
Now it is your turn.
What pattern are you ready to shift?
What’s the first small step you can take today?
Originally published on LinkedIn.
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