I can make the best plans and goals, but sometimes I have a problem following through. For example, I tell myself I am going to get up and go to a workout class, but then I keep hitting snooze and stay in my warm and comfy bed. Or I will want to read a book, but then I get tired and take a nap. Or I want to go work in a coffee shop, but I don’t want to spend the money on coffee or leave the comfort of my apartment.
Are you this way? Maybe your plans and goals are much more serious. Maybe they involve your career, buying a house, starting a relationship, or how to spend your money. All of the options listed can feel intimidating. What would our every day lives look like if we started leaning in to challenges and opportunities we are given?
For 2018, I told myself I would start saying “yes” more often. I am a type A/OCD/planner kind of girl. I do not do well with spontaneity and last minute plans. But what would happen if I slowly started saying yes? Saying yes to joining a friend for a workout class. Saying yes to the birthday party where I only know a couple of people. Saying yes to a weekly gathering of young adults worshipping and hearing a message.
Who knows what will happen! Maybe we will meet some of our closest friends. Maybe we will meet our significant other. Maybe we will meet our future boss or someone who will be a mentor.
Intimidation and fear are from the devil himself. Don’t give him the satisfaction of winning by missing out on opportunities that God is providing for you. God wants you to succeed. He wants the best for you, so walk through the doors that He is providing for you. Through the challenges in our lives, we grow and learn so much about ourselves.
I want you to go after what you want. No dream is too big and no goal is too lofty. Chase after what makes you happy and what you are passionate about. Don’t let social norms, the fact that you are a woman or a mother, or any fear stop you. Push forward. Share with your community so you can have cheerleaders around you pushing you forward, picking you up when you fall down, and praying for you every step of the way.
I want to leave you with a quote from Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In. There were so many good ones to choose from too!
“I hope you find true meaning, contentment, and passion in your life. I hope you navigate the difficult times and come out with a greater strength and resolve. I hope you find whatever balance you seek with your eyes wide open. And I hope that you- yes, you-have the ambition to lean in to your career and run the world. Because the world needs you to change it.”
