In our journey as Jewish women, we often strive to connect deeply with ourselves and with God, finding meaning in our everyday lives. A powerful teaching from Rabbi YY Jacobson reminds us:

“Whatever is happening is exactly where God is. It’s all about our perception. Everything is exactly as it should be. And you can celebrate it… give yourself permission to find God where you are and not where you think you’re supposed to be. It doesn’t mean you’re not challenging yourself. It’s about growth from where you are, as opposed to from a place that doesn’t exist.”

This profound insight encourages us to approach life with honesty, humility, and authenticity. As women, we carry many responsibilities—caring for families, building careers, nurturing friendships—and amidst all of this, we often feel the pressure to be perfect. Yet, it is essential to recognize that we can serve our purpose right now, as we are. Our current selves—imperfect, striving, and real—are already vessels for growth and connection with God.

Embracing the Value of Struggles

Life’s challenges are not only real but profoundly meaningful. Our struggles shape us, challenge us, and lead to growth. Acknowledging the significance of these struggles allows us to live fully, even in the tough moments. Judaism teaches that every challenge is hand-picked by God to fit our unique needs, pushing us toward deeper resilience and faith.

In this light, our struggles become spiritual tools, offering opportunities for reflection, learning, and personal growth. Rather than viewing difficult times as setbacks, we can choose to see them as necessary steps in our personal and spiritual journey. Each struggle has the potential to bring us closer to our true selves and to God.

A Simple Yet Life-Changing Practice

Miriam Adahan, a well-known Jewish therapist, offers a powerful exercise for moments of self-doubt, especially as we navigate the complexities of modern life. When we feel inadequate, she suggests we remind ourselves:

“I am as [insert quality] as God wants me to be right now.”

Whether it’s smart, calm, patient, or kind, this affirmation shifts our mindset from self-criticism to self-compassion. This practice does not imply complacency. Rather, it invites a deeper acceptance of where we are, creating space for genuine growth. Harsh self-judgment often blocks progress, while self-compassion softens our hearts and opens us to the possibility of change. By learning to accept ourselves in the moment, we allow ourselves to evolve naturally, without the pressure of perfectionism.

The Power of Self-Compassion

Judaism emphasizes the importance of kindness, not just toward others but also toward ourselves. No one ever shamed themselves into becoming better. Self-compassion and love are the true catalysts for transformation. When we recognize that God created us with the exact strengths and weaknesses we need, we can begin to trust that we are equipped for whatever life presents us.

Life’s challenges are not random—they are divinely tailored for our growth. Understanding this empowers us to meet difficulties with grace and resilience. In moments of struggle, turning inward with kindness and reminding ourselves that we are doing our best can help us stay grounded.

Divine Support in Every Moment

The well-known adage, “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right,” captures the essence of mindset. But as Jewish women, we know that when we think we can’t, we can turn to God for strength, because He certainly can. This belief fosters resilience and a deep sense of trust. We are never alone in our struggles; God is with us every step of the way.

Jewish wisdom teaches, “Who is the happy person? He who is satisfied with his lot.” This applies not only to material possessions but to our spiritual and emotional state as well. We can find joy and peace in how we are managing right now, even as we strive for more.

Finding the Balance: Contentment and Growth

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of constant striving without ever feeling satisfied. Judaism encourages us to find a balance between contentment and ambition. We are both masterpieces and works in progress, and recognizing this dual nature can bring a sense of calm into our lives.

We are meant to strive for greatness, but we are also meant to trust that where we are at this moment is exactly where we need to be. This balance is not just a mindset but a spiritual practice that can guide us through every stage of life.

Letting Go of Guilt and Shame

One of the greatest barriers to spiritual growth is the weight of guilt and shame. Whether it’s regret over past mistakes or disappointment in our current struggles, these emotions can leave us feeling disconnected from God. But Jewish tradition reminds us that guilt and shame are illusions. God knows us better than we know ourselves—He understands our thoughts, our hearts, and our limitations. He loves us unconditionally, exactly as we are at this very moment.

When we invite God into our struggles, we allow for a deeper relationship to emerge. We don’t have to hide our imperfections from Him. Instead, we can ask for His guidance, for the strength to face challenges, and for the desire to grow. Even when we feel distant, we can trust that God is close.

The Journey Never Ends

Life is a continuous journey of growth, and there is no “final destination.” Our world is one of movement and progress, and we are called to engage with it fully, even as we accept that we are never truly done evolving. Waiting until we feel “good enough” to be close to God is a mistake—He is already waiting for us, right here, in this moment.

By making God our constant companion, we find the strength, resilience, and love to face whatever life brings. Our connection to Him doesn’t depend on our perfection; it depends on our willingness to show up, as we are, and to keep moving forward with faith.

May we all find peace in who we are and the courage to keep growing with faith and compassion.