The Power of Restoration: Reclaiming Strength Through Healing

The Power of Restoration: Reclaiming Strength Through Healing

Nqobile Mthembu

As women, we often carry invisible burdens—wounds from past experiences that we push aside as we focus on achieving our goals. I’ve seen this in my own journey and in the women I’ve worked with. We are strong because we have to be, but rarely do we allow ourselves the space to heal. That’s why restoration is such a crucial part of leadership and personal growth.

In many of the female leader gatherings I have attended, stories of overcoming adversity, abuse, or loss are prevalent. So many great women have endured even greater pain. In their stories, and in my own, I’ve come to realise the importance of embracing pain—however difficult it may be—in order to learn the lessons it holds. Only by confronting that pain can you begin to graduate to the next chapter: your healing journey. This process, though challenging, is where true growth and transformation begin. 

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In The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown, Brown discusses the importance of self-compassion and healing as a path to wholeness. This resonates deeply with me because, for many women, leadership is often tied to resilience. But true strength comes not from the avoidance of pain but from the healing that follows it.

1. Acknowledge the Wounds

The first step toward restoration is acknowledging that we carry wounds. For me, it wasn’t until I stepped back from the fast pace of business that I realized how much unhealed pain I carried from past professional and personal experiences. Restoration begins when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable enough to admit that healing is needed. Most of us succumb to the pressure to present ourselves as perfect, often neglecting to acknowledge our need for healing. But doing this can be detrimental to our purpose. We must recognize our wounds, unpack them, mourn, and then begin the journey of healing. And it truly is a journey—healing isn’t a one-time event; it unfolds over time, gradually restoring us as we confront and process the pain. Embracing this process is essential for personal growth and fulfilling our purpose.

2. Healing is Not a Weakness

There’s often a misconception that healing makes us weak or less capable. But in truth, it is through healing that we become our strongest selves. In Radical Acceptance” by Tara Brach, Brach teaches that embracing our pain and flaws is a powerful act of courage. Healing doesn’t diminish our strength—it deepens it.

3. Restoring Emotional and Spiritual Health

Leadership demands a lot from us emotionally and spiritually. If we don’t take the time to restore ourselves, we burn out. Restoration is not just about physical rest—it’s about emotional and spiritual renewal. Whether it’s through meditation, reflection, or time spent with loved ones, find what restores your soul.

Here’s the takeaway: Restoration is a critical part of your journey. Allow yourself the space to heal, and you’ll emerge stronger, more grounded, and better equipped to lead with authenticity and purpose. This is how I got here. I am on this journey, but I am also fuelled with purpose as I heal from my own pains. I wish you this and more!

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