I want you to take a minute and think about what lessons your life is offering you right now. The truth is when we change the way we look at situations, good and bad, we can actually learn from them.
God offers lessons everyday and it is up to us to learn from them. If you are anything like me, you are hard headed (a typical Taurus trait) and may need to go through things multiple times before you actually learn the lesson. As a result, the same lessons are offered over and over again. Whether you are going through a frustrating or exciting time, there is something to learn which will prepare you for greater opportunities on your horizon.
Today, I want you to be intentional about looking for those lessons and finding ways to apply them to the daily challenges you face. Here are five lessons you may have learned on your journey. If so, consider these a reminder today:
1. Nothing is permanent.
Believe it or not, change is good. The first change I remember was moving from my childhood home to a new neighborhood at the age of 11. It took me awhile but I adjusted. Over the years of going to college, and changing jobs, I quickly learned to adapt to new circumstances, new people, and new surroundings. Nothing in life is permanent. This fact should encourage you to revel in the joy your life is bringing right now. It will help lessen your frustration when you encounter circumstances you don’t like. For some change is not easy, for others they have learned to roll with the punches. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, a new job, or a chronic illness, there is a lesson to be learned. If there is something or someone you love, in what ways could you embrace and enjoy them more? If it is something you don’t think you can handle, just hold on a little longer. This too shall pass.
2. You are either living on purpose or living by accident.
Too many people wander through life haphazardly, for the last few years I have been one of them. I latched onto acquaintances, jobs, and life situations just because they crossed my path. I lived by accident. It wasn’t my plan nor did I actually think I was. I struggled to find my purpose. A course called “Fit Within” is helping me to create a fulfilling life where I am purposeful in my decisions. Don’t make a decision without reflecting on what long-term impact it will have on you and the people you love. Pursue the things which empower you to express your values and talents. Choose to be around people you feel good being around—inspiring, supportive people who are moving in the same direction you are. Know your purpose and live in it every day in your work, relationships, health, finances, and spiritual life. Strive not to end up anywhere by accident—just because it was convenient.
3. Fear does not necessarily mean stop.
Does FEAR cripple you? Do you want to run away or are you ready to roar like a lion and face it head on? Fear is as powerful as you allow it to be. Most of us feel fear and take it as a warning to stop moving forward. Been there, done that and have more t-shirts then I can count! We should see fear as a natural emotion which pops up every time we venture outside of our comfort zone. When you feel fear, keep moving. Step out of your comfort zone. It will help you to grow AND get you closer to your goals. What are you afraid of right now which is keeping you from living your best life? Will you make a decision to move forward despite your fear?
4. Less is more.
Are you someone who shows their worth through money and material possessions? Are you all about keeping up with the Jones’? Do you play the comparison game? The simple truth about self-empowerment is it comes from knowing nothing material will ever prove your worth. This is a lesson I need to be reminded of periodically. Your worth comes from your identity as a child of God and the impact you make in the lives of others. Don’t worry about impressing everyone else. If you are a people pleaser, this might be a tough pill to swallow. Focus on impressing God (or your Higher Power) by living the purpose for which He created you—serving and blessing others in the way only you can.
5. The power to change your life is in the choices you make.
SMACK! This is perhaps the most powerful and toughest of lessons. Better choices create better circumstances. It’s not what happens to you which most impacts your life; it is how you respond to it. Your choices create your future. What kind of future are you creating with the choices you are making today? You can choose to enjoy your life or to be miserable. You can choose to be flexible or keep hitting a brick wall at work or in a relationship. You can choose to pursue your dreams or keep making excuses for why you can’t achieve them. The choice is yours.
What is the most important lesson your life is offering you right now? How will you apply this lesson in your future?
Today I challenge you to take an action in the next 48 hours which will enrich your life in a positive, meaningful way. Share it with us.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 