Going Through the Ebb: Clearing Out the Old to Make Room for the New
Individually and globally, we are going through a clearing-out phase of the economic and energetic cycle. This is one of the most challenging parts of the cycle of abundance and success, because there is nothing to “do” but to “be” with the experience.
So how are we to respond when we are weary of putting so much energy out through marketing and client outreach, when the money is ebbing (diminishing), and when the flow of customers through our “tried and true” channels drops? In some cases, this can be a time of profound confusion, knowing we are ready to let go of what no longer excites or interests us…but we are not yet clear what we are moving toward to replace it.
Our most important action at such times is to spend more time alone, being thankful for all of the experiences that have brought us to this moment…and paying attention to the inklings of the new direction that is beginning to come forth.
There are at least three benefits to the ebb cycle of manifesting:
1) We become more objective – and gratitude naturally follows. By taking the “big picture” view of our experiences – in both the recent and distant past – we can see connections and themes that we did not see when going through the experience. It is like staring at one pearl on a necklace, and then zooming out to a view of the whole strand: we can see how beautiful and connected the whole is! What lessons have come from your recent experiences, whether you have labeled them positive or negative?
2) We can release what is no longer working for/serving us. Nowhere in nature do we see a constant growth cycle without the dropping of leaves, shedding of an old skin, or breaking loose from a cocoon. The old proverb is of the monk pouring tea into a cup and continuing to pour when the cup is full – it cannot hold any more tea until it is emptied out! This is a time of collective emptying out, of the old systems that no longer work in banking, real estate, and business as a whole – as well as in our individual lives. What clothes, furniture, relationships, beliefs or attitudes to you need to shed and release now?
3) We can recreate our business and life in alignment with the new, larger “us” that is emerging now. It is like getting a “clean slate” in mid-life! Once the old is gone, we can evaluate what we really want – and go for it! This is the exciting time of rebirth, whether it be a new business, a new market, a new product, or even taking a sabbatical or picking up a new avocation that feeds our spirit. What new experience or activity is beckoning to you now?
In the Western culture, we are taught not to linger in the ebb…but to get through it as quickly as possible. If we do, we miss its gifts.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, bored, or even angry about how your life and business is right now, consider that this is the gateway through which a brand new expression of you is wanting to emerge. Cherish it, embrace it – and it will lead you into your new life.
And if you would like some support in doing this, we have just 5 spots left in our upcoming Purposeful Branding Retreat May 1-2 in Phoenix – see www.purposefulbrandingretreat.com for details!


