Sometimes disappointing news comes in doses we would rather not take. I have stopped trying to figure out how to reduce/eliminate the issue. I'm continuing to learn the art of response.
As I continue to process my father's passing from 3 months ago, I have received more disappointing news than I thought I would this year. Virtually all of the compartments of life have been touched. The significance doesn't lie in the juicy details or whether I deserve to receive the news. It comes down to the learning and the authenticity that flows afterward. I strive to be someone who's journey is worth following.
I am confident that what unfolds before you will leave, if not lead, you to a better place.
The following post from June of last year seems appropriate for re-visitation:
The above insignia is for the U.S. Navy Seals. I didn't realize how
significant the symbol was until I talked to Erik whose brother is a
Navy Seal.
Erik and I didn't talk much about war or fighting, but we did talk about knowing your limits.
The Seals go through very difficult training in the pursuit of
becoming a Seal. A part of that training is discovering your limits.
My understanding is when a Seal discovers their limits they are better
prepared for the extreme situations inevitable in their job. Some say
enlightenment arrives as well with a discovery of one's limits. I
would agree.
So how about you? Have you discovered, and do you know your limits?
In years past I didn't want to know. I thought knowing my limits
would bring me too close to the "brink." So many times I chose the
expedient and practical The brink is good for you though. I say this,
knowing how painful it can be. No one signs up for it (except maybe
the Navy Seals) and many times we just want a break.
Here are some ideas around discovering and knowing your limits:
- When the storms (business drop-off, health issues, job loss,
relationship troubles) come, stop. You're heading into a time of
discovering your limits. Ironically, the choice is yours as to the staying
and fighting. You could choose an easy route to escape, and many do. - Focus on what is being produced inside of you. This is a
future-forward perspective. In other words, a seed is planted, but you
don't see the fruit for some time to come. You have to believe. - Prepare for people to desert you. It's not personal, but it is
true. Limits are markers for what many people see as dangerous,
frightening or pure madness. When you find someone willing to stick
with you during your discovery and knowing, you've found someone you
can count on. - Don't get bitter or resentful over anything.
- Don't be too hard on yourself when the mistakes are made. Mistakes are a part of the process.
The Navy Seals are an elite group of people. They've set a good
example of what we all should be willing to do in our career,
relationships, health and dreams.
Discover and know your limits.