The Kenyan Scholar

Trees grow both upwards and downwards, which is a fascinating phenomenon. They expand in two directions simultaneously. We instinctively know this about trees, yet we fail to comprehend the tremendous metaphor for life.

Trees require both gravitropic and phototropic processes to grow. It's interesting to learn how a tree grows, but don't worry, I won't go too geeky about these concepts.

The process known as the gravitropic process is when the tree's roots push downward to anchor and nourish it because of gravity. While seeking light, the branches expand upwards, a process known as phototropism. This dual growth is remarkable and critical to the tree's life, allowing it to thrive. We perceive the tree's amazing splendor, but there is much more going on.

Interestingly, a tree's root system frequently reflects the structure of the tree above ground.

So, the seed goes into the ground, and the tree starts growing down before it starts growing up. Now here is what is interesting: When the seed is under the ground, it’s dark under the ground, it’s damp, and it has resistance.

The root system has resistance. It has to push through the dirt to get down further. Well, once it breaks through the earth and grows up, there is no more resistance. The part that is outside the ground grows towards light and away from gravity.

Okay, so how does this help me in my life? This is apparently the most beautiful picture of the way life works. But "how?"  you may ask.

It’s the work that you do in the dark, when it’s difficult and damp, that makes the work that you do, which everybody sees in the light, work.

Nobody saw you during your journey towards success. Everybody sees all the beautiful accomplishments after years of hard work. But they didn’t see the gravitropic nature of your journey while you were on your way here, working deep into the wee hours of the morning to become the person that you are today. That’s the root system. 

Now everybody proclaims and professes to desire the fruit system. Everyone wants to grow toward the heavens. They say, “I want to reach towards the stars... I want everybody to see how tall I can be, how sweet my fruit is, and blah blah blah.”

Well, that sounds great, but if you are unwilling to go down, you cannot go up!

You may have been sending out resumes while networking tirelessly like it is a full-time gig, but you're still running into roadblocks. I am aware that seeking employment or obtaining a promotion can be difficult and demanding. I don't want to minimize the difficulty since I understand how you feel. The way that trees develop is a useful metaphor for the experiences that many recent grads are having.

Remember that the tree's struggle to emerge begins in a less than idyllic setting. The seed starts off in a dreary and dark environment, hidden in the earth. It may be argued that the place is not particularly friendly. As the roots dig in and form an anchor, there is a lot of resistance. The tree is engaged in an invisible war to establish a solid enough foundation to withstand future developments. Once the roots burst through, the resistance lessens, allowing for growth under more favorable conditions.

You might find yourself in the dark like this today, my friend. This upward motion, this branching out without resistance, is based on the capacity to push through difficult times and firmly establish oneself.

However, it stinks being in this dark, dreary place.

Currently, you may feel as though you are pressing against resistance in that damp, dark soil, uncertain as to when or if you will finally break through. After the rejection emails stream in, recruiters do not reply, and you repeat the procedure a thousand times, the resistance builds and appears to be in total opposition to your objectives.

But here's the thing: much like the tree's roots, you can find your way. A young tree simply understands that it must grow in both directions and doesn't dispute the importance of both sunlight and rain. In a similar vein, both your successes and failures provide essential fuel for your growth.

The struggle, the fight despite the odds, the battle amid the dark, serves as where the foundation for you is being built. Although it might be quite difficult at times, this is also the moment when you develop the unrivaled strength and unflinching perseverance that you will need for whatever lies ahead.

For you, what does this mean?

Most importantly, understand that growth is more than just reaching the light. If a tree merely grew upward without any opposition, it would never be able to attain its full potential. There needs to be a two-way growth plan in the job market.

But how can we ensure that our roots are as healthy and powerful as the fruits we hope to grow? There are several methods for grounding oneself so that you can be strong and stand tall in the face of storms.

First, establish your foundation. Your external success is heavily influenced by the hidden labor you perform for yourself. Use this opportunity to improve your skills, expertise, and relationships. These are your roots, and they will help you reach higher.

Second, enrich your soil. Every sturdy tree has excellent, nutrient-rich soil underneath it. Your soil is the relationships you build, the wisdom you gain, and the health you cultivate. Maintain your physical and mental well-being, continue to study, and build meaningful contacts in your sector.

Third, be aware of your growth season. Your career, like a tree, will undergo seasonal changes. There will be periods of quick growth and evident accomplishments, as well as periods of dormancy when your efforts appear to be fruitless. Acknowledge every season for what it is, an essential stage in getting ready for the next.

Fourth, realize that your allies will be adaptability and patience. Your job search and career decisions will take time, just as a seed takes time to grow into a tall tree. Trees are incredibly resilient because they adjust to their surroundings. They may bend to the wind and still grow strong. Allow yourself grace and tolerance as you work through obstacles. Your moment will come. You will discover your own niche under the sun.

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”  — Viktor E. Frankl

Fifth, look for light but don't be afraid of darkness. Concentrate on your objectives and dreams, but do not be afraid to face adversities. Consider them as chances to learn and get stronger, as a tree's roots must do.

Sixth, realize you are not alone. In a forest, every tree began as a seed in the darkness. You are in excellent company. Engage, connect, and expand your community.

Finally, cling on to hope. Growth is inherently characterized by the idea that light emerges from darkness, ease follows resistance, and strength follows struggle. Your story does not end with your present difficulties. As difficult as this may seem, it is critical to your growth.

A tree trunk's growth story, encompassing years of abundance and shortage, is revealed by the rings inside the trunk. You each have comparable growth marks—experiences that have shaped who you are, obstacles you've surmounted, and knowledge gained. To reach the light where your potential is realized, you have to go down into the recesses where you lay your foundation.

Trees enlighten us about patience and timing. They take their time to blossom and produce fruit; everything has its proper time. Similar to this, realizing when you are in your season of growth will help you accept that not all of your efforts will be successful right away, but with perseverance, they will.

Continue to push and grow, and remember that the view from above is only as beautiful as your roots are deep.