Stressed is Desserts Spelled Backwards
As I began reading an article in my inbox today from Success Magazine I began to ponder the impact of the mantras they listed within. Much of what was listed touched on the coaching I've received from mentors, elders, and life (in general). I hope some of what I share sparks a little motivation in your hearts.
Being the domestic engineer of a busy household, mother of 3 ambitious young adults (one with special needs), a volunteer leader at our church, and an entrepreneur one could say I have a few plates spinning simultaneously. How many I can keep going depends upon how far apart they are from one another, the obstacles between each and if I'm doing it all alone. You see, no matter how much I tell myself that if it's to be it's up to me I can't do it all by myself. Nor do I really want to. When I was young, and in my early twenties I thought I had the entire world at my fingertips and there wasn't anything I couldn't do. But age, experiences, failures, disappointments and successes have taught me much in the first 5 decades on this spinning rock.
Since we were little children and coming up with grand dreams of all we wanted to be when we grew up our parents did what they could to help us realize them. They would take us to lessons that would hone a talent; enroll us in sport/performance/mentor organizations that partnered us with others going the same direction; and encourage us to choose our friends wisely. Wait, but how does that last part play into building our dreams??
That is best explained by a rule known to many as the Circle of 5. A mentor and business partner of mine, Bill Nissen, helps to explain it as the 5 people you are closest to on a regular basis are likely to have similar goals, relationships and income as you. Simply put, when you hang around people who are pushing themselves to be better with goal setting & action you tend to shoot for the stars. When these folks work on developing healthy personal, professional and spiritual relationships you are more likely to have good counsel if you have a question or need guidance. In the area of finances, if you are hanging around forward movers you are likely to be earning better because of the first two.
How does this relate to stress, you might ask? Well, if your nearest neighbor is only going to coddle you in your pity party and reinforce how dismal your situation is, it won't make you better, only bitter. Consider the friend that carefully listens to you, supports your feelings at the same time helping to see a new perspective that allows for a more positive resolution to your problem. These are the friends that bring out the best in you, not the stress in you. They help you to see the mountain as one step at a time, not a giant leap to overcome.
Remember, not everyone is meant to be a part of our lives for the entirety of it. Some are for a season, while others have a different reason that propel us onward. But for those you are fortunate enough to have throughout the different phases of your life, offering a new perspective and light, be grateful for them. Show your appreciation by your attitude and love of life. And maybe a day at the beach with snow cones!