NOPE!
It’s clear that in life we all will experience many uncontrollable challenges on a daily basis and some are greater than others. Our lives have many facets with work, home, family, friends, colleagues, partners and perhaps children as well. And over the years, no doubt, commitments have crept in, almost unnoticed, to the point where, whether you know it or not, there are probably multiple versions of you juggling lots of different plates. During the time that I started writing this blog, I changed jobs twice yet within the same organization and there have been several times when the feeling of being overwhelmed has crept in like a dark shadow. But, it doesn’t have to be that way if you know how to control the controllables. For this moment, think about how many versions of you there are. There’s the personal you with family and friends, the professional you with colleagues and bosses, you in a relationship, you as a parent, as well as just you being you. Each version of you has to meet different demands and expectations. Each version of you dialed up or down as you and your life evolve.
Managing the tensions between these various versions of me is something I’ve had to learn and, if I’m candid, am still learning, as new demands and challenges arise. The answer isn’t to become universally excellent at all of them, but to understand which one requires the most attention at any given point. Remember, there are many versions of you but only one physical you. One thing I learned is the value of saying no because every time you say ‘yes’ to something unimportant, you are saying ‘no’ to something important. Remember you can’t be all things to all people. Know your priorities. Know your goals. Know what needs to get done over the coming weeks, months and years for you to feel that you have played your best game. And, say ‘no’ to everything else.
Sure, some people around you might not be happy. But would you rather live your life according to the approval, rules and demands of others, or be aligned with your truth, your dreams and your goals?
What are you going to say ‘no’ to today, tomorrow, next week and next month, to ensure you achieve personal and professional success?
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, as we begin to take steps in the direction of our purpose, we ask that You give us wisdom, insight and patience. We ask in faith that as Your word promises us, that You will give us wisdom in every small and big decision as we further step into our purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.