"It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society." — J. Krishnamurti
What does it mean to be the light? “You light up my life!” “Let your light shine!” “You are the light and the salt.” The light illuminates the way and divides the day from the night. It allows us to find our way out of darkness.
So how does one continue to push on and be the light when the world around you gets dark? How do you harness that light and keep showing up when it can be so turbulent to be seen?
Let me ask you…have you ever wondered how difficult life would be without the light? Those people in this world who are placed here to be the way-showers for us all—the individuals who show up at the right time, say the right thing, and allow themselves and others to rise to a higher vibration.
One of the most recognized beings of light is Jesus Christ. Sent here to raise the vibration of the world, he faced adversity, needed time to rest and recharge, held his temper (except that one time with the money changers!), was an educator, and offered unconditional love and forgiveness. Whoa, sounds like a heavy task!
Being the light in these times comes with a cost. It can be hard and challenging, sometimes leading you to not want to be seen. You become the “go-to” person for everyone going through challenges because you are so good at staying even and radiating good energy. This can lead to not wanting to be seen anymore—or even taking the opposite stance and becoming jaded.
I would like to think that even Jesus would tell you it was all worth it—and it’s worth it for you to keep going, too. Below are tips to stay in control and keep “shining” without burning out.
First, know you are going to face adversity. It will be uncomfortable. Many people cannot handle—or do not want to face—the truth. What even is the truth?
It can be hard to be a person of integrity when the world seems to operate with different morals and agendas, or calls you “silly” for wanting an outcome that benefits all. Be aware of toxic situations over which you have no control and recognize when others are unwilling to change.
I’ve learned it’s not my job to “fix” everyone. Sometimes the lesson is simply to keep going and rise above without projecting harmful thoughts onto others or making them your mental enemy. There is no need to preach or convince—just radiate.
The window of tolerance is a tool that refers to the optimal zone of emotional arousal where an individual can function effectively and respond to life’s challenges.
What is YOUR personal window of tolerance? Do you know when you’re out of your sweet zone? Notice your personal warning signs and know when to take action or retreat before you become unregulated. Are your thoughts intruding? Repeating in a loop? Are you feeling unmotivated?
Devise a plan, learn the signs, and retreat when needed. This self-awareness is key to sustaining your light.
The Hermit archetype represents introspection, wisdom, and a retreat from the external world to seek inner truth and spiritual enlightenment. The Hermit retreats into the world, not away from it, returning with wisdom and renewed perspective.
This world can be draining and confusing. Step back and regroup so you can emerge stronger. Find balance between your inner world and the pull of life’s influences.
Ask yourself: what vie for my attention daily that might require me to retreat? Being mindful of hermit mode is key—too much comfort can prevent growth. Balance is everything.
Doubt will creep in—am I too old? Not old enough? Not good enough? Comparison thinking can follow: “I should be further along. I should be where Ms. X is. She is so much better than I.”
Use your window of tolerance here, too. Ask yourself: What evidence do I have? Why am I feeling this right now? Is this truly the situation or a projection?
Go further: Do I exercise as much faith in myself as the people closest to me do? Am I being consistent? How am I showing up for myself and others? A pep talk from yourself—or someone close—can be the medicine to put you back on track.
Getting comfortable in uncomfortable situations is challenging at first. No one needs to be perfect. You are literally changing your world in these moments!
Chances are, just as your breakthrough is coming, things may get really hard. Expect that, honor it, and remember: you are not falling apart—you are stripping away everything false. Recommit to yourself in these moments—it builds faith when circumstances seem to oppose you.
Ask: What does my resistance feel like now? What will it feel like on the other side? What small steps can I take to make it manageable? Remember: the only way out is through, and even baby steps count as progress.
Finally, surrender and become the architect of the life you are creating. You are here to radiate goodness, and with it comes a great responsibility to yourself. Take it slow if needed. Check in with your breath, thoughts, and how you feel in your body.
Know that challenging situations will arise. Life isn’t fair—yet it can be rewarding and fun. You can leave the table when love is no longer being served. There is no need to explain.
Believe in yourself as much as you believe in others. Count your blessings. With all the love you pour into the world, remember that self-love and reflection are just as important.
Be easy. Be gentle. Be kind.
You are not just shining light—you are changing the narrative, sometimes for generations to come.
Shine your light, my beautiful lightworkers. Shine—and be seen!
Take the first step toward your next chapter and begin shining your light in a way that is authentic, powerful, and uniquely yours. If this resonates with you, know that your own path of growth, healing, and self-discovery is possible. SWIHA’s programs offer supportive guidance, practical tools, and a caring community to help you explore your calling—whether in healing arts, holistic practices, or personal transformation.