Knowing Who You Are

Knowing who you are and standing firm on your values when facing difficult times is an important lesson I continue to learn over the years.

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It is a peace that is overwhelmingly calming when it is present and unbearable when it is absent.

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The core of our identity can be tested and revealed and it’s an opportunity to uncover strengths, address weakness and reaffirm values.

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For a lot of my younger adult life, I think it’s safe to say that perhaps I didn’t know exactly who I was. I knew who I wanted to be but I’m not sure I was confident enough to know who I was. I certainly wasn’t introspective enough to stand firm on being the person I wanted to be all of the time.? It is a lifelong journey to learn who you are, who you aren’t and to gain the self-confidence to stand firm in your convictions.

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As leaders, we often find ourselves in positions that require us to make difficult decisions and navigate delicate landscapes – often sacrificing what is easy for what is right. Because in a lot of instances, what is right is far from easy, and what is easy may be far from right.

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We have multiple opportunities on a daily basis to make decisions that have consequence. At times those consequences are positive, and other times they are difficult. Sometimes both. Recognizing that sometimes God’s path for us is not always the easy one and remaining steadfast in our pursuit of the path of consequence can be challenging but critical as a leader.

Sometimes the mere exercise of taking action when inaction would be easier is also a part of leadership that can be difficult but essential.

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Personally, I have learned that including God in those decisions is an important part of my relationship with Him. There’s a difference between surrender and control.

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Surrender is not a sign of weakness but an acknowledgment of our reliance on divine guidance and strength. And asking for God’s guidance is merely making an informed decision.

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Incorporating faith into challenging moments also invites us to view difficult decisions as opportunities for spiritual growth. Each trial becomes a chance to cultivate qualities such as patience, humility and perseverance.

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Challenges can test our commitment to these values, but they can also provide opportunities to embody Christ's teachings in tangible ways.

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Christ's own trials and sufferings become a source of inspiration, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.

Another element of leaning on faith during difficult times is the comfort of being surrounded by others who are believers. Their knowing of who we are and reminding us of the rock on which we stand, surrounding us with compassion, reassurance and encouragement reinforces the decision to choose the path of truth. While not always the easiest, it is always the right one.

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If you face challenging decisions in your business or personal life, I’m happy to be part of the group that surrounds you. You can always email me at [email protected].