Finding Direction in Life: Are You a Flag Pole or a Sail Mast?
I grew up around water. Mainly on the Great Lakes and now reside on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay in a little town. When you live around water you see a lot of poles that have different purposes. Mainly you see a lot of flag poles and even more sailboat masts. This resonated with me on the purpose of the flagpole and sail mast.... and how the comparison of each fits into my and your life journey.
In the vast ocean of life, we often find ourselves caught between two analogies: the flag pole and the sail mast. Picture a flag fluttering in the wind, free to sway in any direction the breeze takes it. On the other hand, envision a sail mast, equipped with a boom that empowers the sail to catch the wind and navigate with purpose. Which one resonates with your life?
The flag pole represents a passive existence, where we let external circumstances dictate our direction. We go wherever life takes us, lacking a sense of control and purpose. Like the flag, we are at the mercy of the wind, drifting aimlessly without a course to follow.
On the contrary, the sail mast embodies a proactive approach to life. It symbolizes the readiness to harness the winds of change and steer our own path. The boom acts as a guiding force, offering direction and purpose amidst the unpredictable currents. With a boom for our sail mast, we become captains of our destiny, driven by a vision and a plan.
So, which are you? Are you content being a flag pole, passively drifting through life, or are you ready to transform into a sail mast, taking charge of your journey? To become a sail mast, we need to develop our own personal "boom" — a framework of goals, values, and passions that propel us forward.
Crafting a boom requires introspection and self-awareness. It involves identifying our core values, setting meaningful goals, and charting a course that aligns with our aspirations. With a clear direction, we can weather any storm, adapting our sails to optimize our progress and navigate the challenging waters of life.
While becoming a sail mast may sound daunting, remember that personal growth and development are lifelong journeys. It's never too late to equip yourself with a boom. Start by reflecting on your passions, interests, and values. Set achievable goals and break them down into actionable steps. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who can guide and encourage you along the way.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Will you remain a flag pole, or will you take the leap and become a sail mast? Embrace the boom that will empower you to sail confidently toward the horizon of your dreams. Your life is an adventure waiting to unfold, and with a clear direction, you can set sail and navigate your way to a fulfilling and purposeful existence.
To Your Success!!!
Other articles by?Chris Shrader
Motive helps Private Market investors and their portfolio companies accurately measure and effectively communicate your ESG progress to Investment Committees, LPs, and customers.
1 年Great post. I love the framing.