A Tree Grows in Two Directions at the Same Time

CAREER ADVICE

If you've been tirelessly sending out resumes and networking like it's your full-time job, and still hitting wall after wall, I hope this can help. I know looking for a job or getting a promotion is a rough, gritty, experience. I know this feeling and I don't want to sugarcoat the challenge. I've spoken with many of you recently and faced this hurdle multiple times in my career. I want to share a helpful metaphor for what many are going through.

Trees do a fascinating thing where they grow upwards and downwards simultaneously. They grow in two directions at the same time. It's something we instinctively know about trees, but we don't stop to recognize the powerful metaphor for life.

For starters, there's some cool science behind it — both a gravitropic and a phototropic process are necessary for a tree's growth. Don't worry, I won't geek out too much on these principles, but it's neat to understand how a tree grows.

The roots, driven by gravity, push down to anchor and nourish the tree, called the gravitropic process. While the branches, seeking light, stretch upwards — called the phototropic process. This dual growth is fascinating and essential for the tree's survival, allowing it to flourish. We see the tree's splendid beauty, but much more is happening.

The structure of a tree's roots often mirrors what you see above ground.

Think about that.

The tree's fight to emerge starts in a not-so-scenic place. The seed, nestled in the soil, begins in a dark and gloomy place. One could argue it's not very hospitable there. There's a lot of resistance as the roots push down and establish an anchor. This unseen battle is the tree's fight to create a strong enough foundation to support what's to come. Once the roots break through, that resistance fades, paving the way for growth in more welcoming conditions.

This, my friend, is where you may find yourself today — in the dark. This process of growing upwards, of branching out without facing resistance, is predicated on the ability to push down and firmly establish oneself, even when the going gets tough.

But being in this dark, gloomy place sucks when you're in it.

Right now, you might feel like you're in that dark, damp soil, pushing against resistance, unsure when or if you'll break through. After rejection emails flood in, recruiters don't respond, and you repeat the process 1,000 times, the resistance grows and seems to be in complete opposition to your goals.

But here's the thing — just as the tree's roots find their way, so can you. A young tree doesn't question the necessity of sunlight AND rain for its growth — it just knows it needs to grow in both directions. Similarly, your achievements and setbacks are both vital nutrients for your development.

The struggle, the push against the odds, the battle in the darkness, is where your foundation is being laid. It's hard, sometimes unbearably so, but it's also where you gain the unmatched strength and unwavering resilience needed for what comes next.

What does this mean for you?

First, realize that growth is not only about reaching the light. A tree could never reach its full potential if it only grew upward without resistance. The job market requires a two-way growth strategy. But how do we ensure our roots are as nourished and strong as the branches we aspire to grow? Below are a few ways to ground yourself so you are strong and can stand tall to withstand the storms.

A Few Reminders as You Establish Your Roots

1. Build your foundation

Your outward successes are deeply rooted in the unseen work you do for yourself. Use this time to deepen your skills, knowledge, and connections. These are your roots and they will support you as you reach upwards.

2. Nourish your soil

Under every strong tree is fertile soil, rich with nutrients. Your soil is the network of relationships, the knowledge you accumulate, and the well-being you nurture. Attend to your mental and physical health, continuously learn, and develop meaningful relationships in your industry.

3. Know your season of growth

Just as a tree goes through seasons, your career will too. There will be seasons of rapid growth, visible achievements, and periods that feel dormant, where your efforts seem to bear no fruit. Recognize each season for what it is — a necessary phase in preparing you for what's next.

4. Patience and adaptability are your allies

Just as a seed doesn't become a towering tree overnight, your career decisions and job search will take time. Trees adapt to their environment, bending with the wind and finding ways to thrive regardless. Give yourself grace through the setbacks and patience in the process. Your time will come. You will find your unique spot under the sun.

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

5. Seek out light, but don't fear the dark

Focus on your goals and aspirations, but don't shy away from the challenges. See them as opportunities to learn and grow stronger just as the roots must do for the tree.

6. You're not alone

Every tree in a forest started as a seed in the dark. You're in good company. Reach out, connect, and grow your community. If that's a slow process, connect with me on LinkedIn — I'm happy to be your first connection.

7. Hold onto hope

The very nature of growth suggests that after the darkness comes light, and after the resistance comes ease, and after the struggle comes strength. Your current challenges are not the end of your story. As hard as this may be, it is vital to your growth.

We, Like the Tree, Grow in Two Directions at the Same Time

The rings inside a tree trunk tell its growth story, including years of plenty and scarcity. You carry similar marks of growth — experiences that shape you, challenges you've overcome, and lessons you've learned. You have to descend into the depths where you build your foundation and reach toward the light where you fulfill your potential.

"And once the storm is over, you won't remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won't even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won't be the same person who walked in." — Haruki Murakami

Trees teach us a lesson in patience and timing. They don't rush to bloom and bear fruit; everything happens in its season. Likewise, recognizing your season of growth can help you understand that not every effort will bear fruit immediately, but with persistence, it will.

Keep pushing, keep growing, and remember — the view from the top is only as beautiful as the roots are deep.

Thanks for reading! Looking to level up and design how others experience you? Connect with nearly 5,000 others on my Medium page, or add me on LinkedIn, Instagram, and X. I can't wait to help you design the UX of YOU!

Mike Curtis - Medium Read writing from Mike Curtis on Medium. Senior UX Designer / New articles weekly on design & self-improvement /…