Whose Coat Are You Wearing?

Do you remember being a kid and having to wear a coat—not because you were cold, but because your mom, aunt, or grandma felt cold? If you have your own kids you probably did this too.

As people who deeply care about others, we’re constantly looking for ways to protect them—from discomfort, danger, or disappointment. In childhood, this instinct makes sense. But as we grow, it’s crucial to learn how to make decisions for ourselves.

When we reach adulthood, the guidance we receive can start sounding like this:

• Shouldn’t you…

• Why would you do that?

• I wouldn’t do that if I were you.

• That sounds risky.

• You don’t want to get out of balance.

• Should you really spend so much time on this? It probably won’t work out.

• What if you fail?

• This is what I did and it worked for me.

  
  

And so, without realizing it, we begin wearing “coats” we never chose—coats made of opinions, fears, and well-meaning advice. These layers, while often given in love, can end up smothering our creativity, dimming our confidence, and redirecting our path. Before we realize it we have lost our zest for life and the joy of learning and expanding our lives.

We stop engaging fully in our own lives and just live from one to do lists and obligation to the next.

Don’t get me wrong—I believe in the wisdom of others. I value learning from those who’ve walked before me. But I also believe that real joy comes from choosing our path with intention. It comes from asking: Is this decision aligned with who I want to be and the life I want to create?

Spring is a season of shedding, of cleaning, of renewal. 

I’m embracing it fully—not just in nature, but in my own life.

With each emotional or mental layer I release, I discover something new about myself. Some of what I find is hard to look at. But even in the discomfort, there’s beauty. There’s power in realizing I can grow. I can let go of guilt that was passed down to me. I don’t have to live by someone else’s expectations or carry the weight of needing their approval.

Instead, I can choose to live in alignment with my own values—anchored in love and a desire to serve others authentically.

I’m so excited about this season of growth. How about you?

Whose coat are you wearing? And how long have you been wearing it?

It’s Spring. Don’t just pack that coat away—let it go.

There’s more joy, more peace, and more fulfillment waiting for you. 

Watch what happens next!