Episode 9: Perspective & Permission: Reframing Your Story & Pursuing What Matters
Welcome back to the Vision to Victory blog, where we talk about practical ways to turn your dreams into reality.
Over the last several weeks, we've been exploring the idea of living with a rhythm of peace and pursuit—a life that’s both grounded and inspired, present and purpose-driven. We've talked about cultivating peace, saying no to distractions, and facing the tough reality of depression.
Today, I want to share two powerful tools that help us navigate difficult seasons: Perspective and permission.
Perspective: This Is Not the Whole Story
When life feels heavy, it’s easy to zoom in on the pain and forget the bigger picture. But here’s a simple truth that can be life-changing: Whatever you’re facing right now is just a chapter—not your whole story.
Years ago, I went through an incredibly low season. I had just gone through a divorce, lost my father to cancer, and was numbing my pain through alcohol. It felt dark and hopeless. But as difficult as that chapter was, it wasn’t the end.
It was a part of my story. And, in many ways, it became a turning point—the beginning of growth and healing that shaped who I am today.
So if you’re going through something hard right now, remind yourself:
This is not the end of your story. It’s not even the whole story. It’s just a chapter.
And your story?
It’s still being written.
You're Part of Something Bigger
Your life isn’t just about you.
You’re part of a broader community—your family, your neighborhood, your workplace, and yes, even the human race.
Every action you take, every challenge you overcome, every lesson you learn… it ripples out and impacts others. You may not see it now, but your journey can and will inspire those around you—and even generations to come.
You have a role to play in a much larger story.
Permission: What You’re Allowed to Give Yourself
In addition to gaining perspective, sometimes what we really need is permission—permission to be human, to let go, to take action, or to dream again.
Here are five powerful permissions that can help you move forward:
1. Permission to Be Messy
Life is messy.
It’s unpredictable, imperfect, and full of ups and downs. You’re allowed to be in a season of mess. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it just means you’re alive.
So if your life feels out of control or complicated right now, know this:
You’re not alone. And you’re not broken.
You're just human.
2. Permission to Take Risks
Playing it safe might feel secure, but it’s rarely fulfilling.
One of the most common regrets in life is not taking a chance—on a dream, a relationship, a new direction.
If there’s something on your heart that excites and intimidates you, go for it.
The biggest risk is playing it safe and never truly living.
3. Permission to Say No
Every time you say “yes” to something that drains you or distracts you, you're saying “no” to something that might truly matter.
You have the right to say no to:
Obligations that no longer serve you
Relationships that hold you back
Distractions that steal your peace or time
Saying no creates space to say yes to something better.
4. Permission to Ask for Help
Asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.
We’re not meant to go through life alone. Whether you’re facing a tough season, battling mental health struggles, or just feeling stuck, reach out. Talk to someone safe. Connect with a friend, a mentor, a counselor.
Vulnerability leads to healing. Don’t stay stuck in silence.
5. Permission to Pursue a Dream
So many of us bury our dreams under responsibility, fear, or self-doubt. But you’re allowed to pursue something that inspires you—even if it’s scary, even if it feels uncertain, even if it’s “just a hobby.”
Find something that makes you come alive—and take a step toward it.
You only get one life. Make it count.
Final Thoughts
If you're navigating a messy chapter, feeling overwhelmed, or simply unsure of your next step, I hope this helps:
Gain perspective—your current struggle is not the whole story.
Give yourself permission—to be messy, take risks, say no, ask for help, and pursue what matters.
Whatever you're facing right now, it’s temporary.
And on the other side of the mess, there’s purpose.
If this resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might need to hear it.
Thanks for tuning into Vision 2 Victory, watch the full episode here.