For as long as I can remember I have pushed myself, hard. Whether it was in academics or in my personal life I have always wanted to do my best. A psychologist may say that being raised as an only child may be at the root of it, which I wouldn’t discount all together. But I believe at the heart of it is that I was created this way on purpose by a purposeful God.
https://www.ladydspeaks.com/raising-confident-decision-makers/
You Did it to Yourself
I don’t love change. And I am pretty confident I’m a part of a huge club that feels the same on this subject. So why do I constantly do things that will push me out of my comfort zone, and cause change in my life? Well, that’s the million dollar question. In short I’ve come to the conclusion that it is one of two things.
One reason we can seem to find ourselves facing challenges is because we want the spotlight. Have you ever volunteered, signed up, and joined a group with hopes of getting a pat on the back? Perhaps even hearing someone say, “you’re amazing.” If there’s a prize to be won you want it. Ugh right. I’ve done it too. It’s fair to say that challenges, term oil, and problems in this area are ones we’ve brought on ourselves. And all because we wanted glory that wasn’t rightfully ours. These challenges can be avoid many times by letting the light shine on others.
Life Tip: If God isn’t in it then neither should you
Blessings in the Face of Struggles
The second category is very different. Here challenges seemed to be placed as roadblocks in your path. Then again they can even be the destination itself. These challenges don’t seem to be happening by accident. Though the struggles here can still be just as difficult and exhausting, there is always something to gained. Whether it’s a new skill, a friendship, or unknowingly being a blessing to someone else, this category is one we should run to not from. Like arrows guiding us down a dirty road which suddenly lead us to a picturesque clearing, it’s a view worth seeing. Personally, these are welcome challenges, even if I am initially kicking and screaming at the beginning. Growth comes from facing these moments without knowing what’s coming next.
This is a truth I need to hold onto when I feel like throwing up my hands and calling it quits. Thinking back to the times when I wanted to quit homeschooling in the early years. I felt like there were too many challenges. I also added to my load by unnecessarily worrying. Now I think about all the fun we’ve had, and I wonder why I didn’t do this sooner. You see, the challenges I faced all those years ago were the very ones I needed to experience. It taught me, amongst other things, to be patient, and it continues to each day. And so many other things, which I’m truly grateful for.
https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/hang-in-there-parents/
Growing is Active
So if you’re faced with a challenge today ask yourself if it is one that you’ve caused yourself or simply one you’re meant to face. Challenges aren’t all good or bad in and of themselves so don’t be afraid to dig deeper. If you are the cause of the problem then be honest. Apologize, stop the behavior, and get yourself back on track.
But if you realize you were led to this point, then take a moment to pause not run. This may be an uphill battle but you have what you need to be victorious. Find comfort in knowing that something beautiful can come out of what right now may look like a mess.
