Turning Personal Challenges and Grief into Support for Others: My Journey
Why "I’MPOSSIBLE JOURNEY"?
You may be asking, "Why title your book I’MPOSSIBLE JOURNEY?" As my dad frequently reminded those around him, so much of life is about perspective. Are you choosing to focus on the apparent impossibilities around you? Or have you, like me, been on a journey that has strengthened your resolve and conviction that you have what you need inside of you and in the world around you to make an impact? Life presents challenges, but I believe those very challenges can be stepping stones to something greater.
Every week, I facilitate workshops that explore the challenges and opportunities in our lives. In these sessions, we uncover the treasures hidden in the midst of grief and adversity—just as the subtitle of I’MPOSSIBLE JOURNEY suggests. Through years of guiding individuals and families, I’ve come to several realizations that are relevant to everyone seeking growth, healing, and purpose.
Realization #1: Each of Us Has Strengths and Talents
I understand—it’s sometimes difficult to believe, especially when you’re looking in the mirror. But I firmly believe that you are a goldmine.
When I first share this phrase in my workshops, new attendees often look at me quizzically. What do I mean by that? I explain that, like real gold, our strengths and talents often lie beneath the surface, obscured by self-doubt, hardship, and the noise of everyday life. But if we feel an interest or a deep pull toward something, we owe it to ourselves to explore why. Clues to our purpose are often in us or around us—like a treasure map—but sometimes, we need others to help us read it.
For example, one of my coaching clients is a gifted artist. Her work is rich with creativity and vibrancy, yet she struggles with self-doubt. Life’s challenges often tempt her to discredit her talent. Lately, we've been working on valuing her work—not just artistically but in the time, effort, and emotional investment she puts into it. She has now started selling her art, and with the encouragement of her cohort, she’s gaining confidence in her gift. This is a reminder to all of us: our strengths and talents are valuable, but sometimes, we need support to recognize and nurture them.
Realization #2: We Need Each Other
One of the greatest lessons my dad imparted to me was the power of community.
No matter how independent we think we are, we thrive in connection. Whether in grief, career growth, or personal discovery, we need people who see the best in us and remind us of our worth when we forget. It’s why I encourage my workshop participants to affirm one another. We all battle doubt. We all have days when we struggle to see our potential. But when we support each other, we reinforce the truth that we are capable, resilient, and never alone in our journeys.
In my own life, I’ve found that I sometimes struggle to see my most obvious strengths. I used to think everyone possessed certain traits—like exhortation, for example—but I’ve realized that encouragement and insight are gifts that not everyone naturally leans into. Recognizing this has helped me lean into my strengths, just as I encourage my clients to do the same.
Realization #3: Grief Doesn’t Just Disappear—But It Can Lead to Growth
Three years after losing my dad, I’ve learned that grief doesn’t go away. It shifts, it changes, but it remains a part of you.
As a facilitator, I know I have a responsibility to show up for my clients. But I also know that suppressing my grief or shutting down my own process would make me less authentic. I don’t have to pretend everything is fine all the time, and neither do you. Occasionally, I share when something triggers a memory of my dad and brings up emotions. What amazes me is how a little vulnerability, intentional or not, opens the door for others to share their own struggles—sometimes ones they’ve carried for years or even decades.
Your journey—your grief, your challenges—can be a key that unlocks healing for others. When we acknowledge our experiences and allow ourselves to process them, we make space for others to do the same. That is the power of shared humanity.
Realization #4: A Rallying Cry is Essential
We all need a rallying cry—something that keeps us moving forward when life gets difficult.
After my dad’s passing, one phrase kept returning to me: Dad didn’t leave us here to wilt.
My father had an incredible way of communicating belief in those around him. He championed me in my work, dreams, and everything in between. Even in his absence, I hold onto that unwavering support. Now, the baton is in my hands. He wouldn’t expect me to sit and wait—he would encourage me to move forward, to grow, and to make a difference. Every day, as I work with clients, I remember that.
So, I ask you: What’s your rallying cry? What belief or motivation keeps you moving forward, even when the road gets tough?
How to Apply These Lessons in Your Life
Whether you’re navigating grief, chasing a dream, or seeking clarity in your life, remember:
You have strengths and talents. Even if they aren’t obvious to you yet, they are there. Dig deep, and don’t be afraid to explore them.
You don’t have to go through life alone. Community, encouragement, and mentorship matter. Find people who see the best in you and hold onto them.
Your struggles don’t define you—but they can shape you. Grief, challenges, and obstacles are real, but they don’t have to hold you back. They can be stepping stones to something greater.
Anchor yourself in a rallying cry. Whether it’s a phrase, a belief, or a mission, let it propel you forward.
These realizations are not just lessons I teach—they are truths I live by. They are the foundation of my work with Dreaming Made Simple and the core of I’MPOSSIBLE JOURNEY.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
I’d love to hear from you. What’s your rallying cry? What keeps you going, even in the face of challenges? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Let’s continue this journey together.
If you’d like to learn more or order a signed copy of my book, visit DreamingMadeSimple.com or find I’MPOSSIBLE JOURNEY: Finding Treasure in the Midst of Grief on Amazon.
Let’s keep moving forward—together.
Sam Miller
Founder of Dreaming Made Simple
Author | Speaker | Advocate
