The other day, I was talking to a good friend about how, despite all the challenges of bouncing back as a new mother, I haven’t really felt like I’m going through postpartum depression. I followed up by saying that the biggest reason, quite simply, is this: I’ve been allowing myself grace.

I’ve been in the season of letting myself rest when I need to, not feeling guilty for moving at a slower pace, and giving myself room to adjust to this new season of life. But then my friend said something along the lines of—

“Is it grace, or are you just in your comfort zone?”

Whew. Well obviously it sat with me because here we are today. That line between giving yourself grace and getting a little too comfortable can get real blurry so lets distinguish the two.

Grace is Rest. Comfort Zones Are Ruts.

Grace is knowing when you need to take a step back and breathe. It’s understanding that you don’t have to be everything to everyone all the time. But a comfort zone? That’s when slowing down turns into stopping altogether. It’s when “I just need a break” turns into “Maybe I don’t need to push myself at all.”

I had to ask myself, have I been allowing myself necessary space to transition into this new chapter of life? Or have I been using grace as an excuse to stay in a place that feels safe but isn’t necessarily serving me?

Growth is Uncomfortable. Grace is Necessary.

When healing whatever season you’re in, real growth is uncomfortable. It stretches you in ways you didn’t ask for. But grace is what helps you navigate it without breaking.

Grace reminds you that you’re still learning and evolving. It tells you it’s okay to move at your own pace. But it doesn’t eliminate the need to move. And that’s where the balance comes in.

The Check-In: Grace or Comfort Zone?

If you’re unsure whether you’re truly giving yourself grace or just avoiding growth, ask yourself:

• Am I taking this break because I truly need it, or because I’m scared to push forward?
• Have I been in the same place for too long without real progress?
• Do I feel at peace with where I am, or do I feel restless but stuck?
• Am I still working towards my goals, even if it’s at a slower pace?

If you realize you’ve been sitting still for too long, it might be time to lovingly push yourself forward again.

The Balance: Be Kind to Yourself, But Keep Moving

That conversation made me take a step back and really evaluate where I am right now. And honestly? I think I’m doing a little of both. I’m giving myself grace where I need it, but I also see some areas where I’ve been holding myself back because of timing, not comfort.

So, this is my reminder to myself and to you too friend. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself the grace you deserve. But don’t mistake stagnation for self-care.

It’s okay to rent out the hotel, but don’t unpack and live there. Keep going, even if it’s just one step at a time. The new version of you is waiting for you to catch up.

Xoxo, Drea