The "From The Overflow" Entry

Hello everyone!

Happy first Sunday of July??

Today's entry is an offshoot of a powerful message I heard yesterday that I feel I need to share with you.

In a meeting yesterday, the speaker emphasized that we can only give to others from our own overflow. This means we must be filled first ourselves. This same word was echoed in church today when my pastor said “You have to be rescued first to be able to rescue others.”

People can only introduce you to what they know. If you share a problem with someone, they will give solutions based on what they know and what they have. Nobody gives help or solutions outside what they know or have. It’s impossible.

When this word was given yesterday and when I heard it in church today, it was referring to staying in prayer and studying the word of God. However, I believe that this principle can also be applied to other areas of our lives.

Remember in school, there was a difference between teachers who captivate students and those who don’t. Teachers who engage the class seem to be more prepared.

I had almost a year of teaching during my service year, and this is one thing I learned. The difference between my teaching style when I went to class prepared and when I went unprepared was obvious.

When I was unprepared, the class didn’t flow, and the students didn’t understand.

By the time I noticed this, I started taking preparations very seriously. I would sit down and thoroughly understand what I was about to teach before I got into class. There’s no way a student would ask me a question that I wouldn’t know how to explain.

Preparation is Key!

Being prepared is not just about having your notes in order. It’s about understanding the material deeply enough that you can present it confidently and respond to questions clearly. Whether you’re a teacher, a speaker, or someone simply trying to help a friend, being prepared means you can offer the best of yourself. This preparation builds confidence and allows you to impact others in the best way possible.?

I remember the transformation in my teaching when I began to prepare thoroughly. Not only did my confidence grow, but my students’ understanding also improved. Beyond the classroom, in any role, thorough preparation helps you to be your best to help others.

Take the time to prepare, whether it’s for a presentation or a meeting. Understand the material or situation deeply. This will pay off in how effectively you can communicate and help others.

Fill Your Own Cup First

You can’t pour from an empty cup and that’s a fact. Whether it’s through prayer, meditation, continuous learning, or self-care, you need to ensure that you are filled and nourished. Only then can you genuinely offer support and wisdom to others. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.

I have had times when I tried to help others while I was running on empty, and it didn’t work out well. It’s essential to take care of your own needs before trying to assist others. Even on planes you’re told to put on your oxygen mask first before helping anyone else.?

If not you stand the risk of losing yourself and the other person.

Think about what fills your cup. Is it a quiet morning with a cup of coffee? A walk in nature? A good book? Make it a priority to incorporate these things into your routine. Remember, you’re not being selfish; you’re ensuring that you can be your best self for those who need you.

Never Forget Your Experience

My time as a teacher taught me that sharing my own struggles and how I overcame them often helped me connect more with my students than just the theoretical knowledge. They could see that I understood what they were going through, and that made a difference.

Consider how your experiences, especially the difficult ones, have shaped you. Use these experiences to connect with others. When someone is struggling, share your journey and how you navigated similar challenges. Your story could be the encouragement they need to keep going. No matter what, do not forget that you also need filling too. You are not perfect so always express empathy.

In whatever role you find yourself remember, you have to fill your own cup first so that you can pour into others. This principle will help you make a meaningful impact.

So, how can you apply these lessons in your life this week? What steps can you take to ensure you’re prepared, filled, and empathetic? Think about these questions and take action. Your growth and the impact you have on others depend on it.

Read more, look for more knowledge, make sure you are well rested. That is the only way you can effectively help others.

RANDOM FACT OF THE WEEK: In case you are wondering what meeting I heard this powerful word in??. It was in one of the weekly meetings in preparation for The Light Conference holding in Lagos this August. It will be an amazing congregation of stars in different sectors. You do not want to miss it!

I wish you an amazing week.

See you next Sunday!

Your trusty growth partner,

Dee?