Spring Forward: What Daylight Saving Time Teaches Us About Progress
Every year, we change our clocks shifting from winter to spring. Each time, there are people who complain. “We’re losing an hour of sleep!” “Why do we even do this?” “I hate adjusting!” This seasonal shift holds a powerful lesson about progress: Change can be uncomfortable, but it positions us for more light, more opportunity, and more growth.
Progress Requires a Mindset Shift
Some people wish we could stay in standard time year-round, no changes, no shifts, just stability and sameness. When time “springs forward,” we advance an hour, an immediate cost for the long-term gain of extended daylight. It extends opportunity, allowing for longer days and more productivity. What if we applied that same principle to life? What if we shifted our mindset forward, even when it means a little discomfort. What if we let go of the past (standard time) and embraced the opportunities of the future? Too often, people resist change because it feels like they’re losing something, comfort, routine, the familiar. But just like daylight saving time, real growth requires a willingness to shift, even when it’s inconvenient.
The Initial Discomfort is Temporary
When the switch is made, people feel groggy and out of sync, yet, within days sometimes weeks, they adapt, and continue to go about daily activities, taking advantage of longer daylight hours. What was once disruptive, becomes normal. The discomfort experienced when “springing forward” mirrors the resistance felt when stepping into growth. The first few days after daylight saving time requires adjusting. The same happens in life when stepping into a new season of growth. Starting a new routine feels awkward at first, but the brain and body adapt. Waking up earlier to work on a goal is rough in the beginning, but eventually, it becomes second nature. Breaking an old habit comes with temptation, but over time, the pull of temptation past weakens.
The discomfort of progress is temporary, but the regret of staying the same lasts a lifetime. You can either push through the adjustment period and embrace new opportunities, or you can stay stuck in “standard time” comfortable, but not growing.
Spring Forward in Your Life
Springing forward isn’t just about changing the clock; it’s a reminder that we, too, can shift forward. Right now, there is a change waiting for you, a necessary shift you’ve been avoiding because it feels uncomfortable. Maybe it’s a habit you need to start or one you need to let go of. Maybe it’s a decision that requires stepping into the unknown. Maybe it’s time to stop waiting and finally commit to what’s next. This season, don’t just reset your clock reset your mindset. Lean into the shift. Let go of what’s comfortable. Spring forward into the progress that’s waiting for you.
Your Turn: What’s one way you’re choosing to “spring forward” in life this season? Drop a comment below I’d love to hear how you’re embracing change!
