"We’re not called to a busyness that drains us"

"We're not called to a busyness that drains us; we're called to an abundance that trains us." - Susie Larson

TWEET IT!!

I was chatting with one of my mentors yesterday about a potential opportunity for a group of students (I typically run my thoughts by her). I was looking for a few points of contact to get the ball rolling and knew she’d point me in the right direction. No surprise, she had great suggestions for who to contact, where to look, etc. and as we were wrapping up she said, “I look forward to seeing this come to fruition.”

My response? “Yikes! I’m just helping to make the connection, I can’t take on another project right now.”

Surprised? Don’t be. I learned very early on that taking on everything is absolutely NOT God’s will for my life. And it’s likely not HIS will for yours either.  It doesn't mean that I don't sometimes over-commit myself but it certainly happens a lot less.

Here's what I've learned - It’s okay to support from the sidelines, make connections as needed, and keep it moving.

Here are few questions to ask yourself before making a commitment:

1. Does this align with my goals and priorities? Ok, this doesn't have to mean life goals but ask yourself "does this align with the goals and priorities for this season of my life?"

2. Do you truly have the time to commit fully?

3. Saying yes to this means saying no to what?

The world can pull us in a million directions if we let it. Don't play tug of war, be selective.

...skip the highlight reels.

…skip the highlight reels.

Highlight reels? Yes, the ones on social media, highlighting the ups and downs of strangers, friends, and family (yes, them too). It’s okay to check-in, be inspired, catch up on the news, ‘tea’, etc. from time to time but there’s this habit of believing and drawing conclusions about people based on what is depicted on social media. I don’t post pictures of me napping so one might assume I’m out here being super woman and that is simply NOT the case. My nap game is strong. No pictures/videos of me dancing, but that doesn’t mean I don’t indulge. As my mentees would say “I got my whole life” last week at a local benefit concert for charity trying to keep up with the fearless leader of one of my favorite bands (NOTE TO SELF: You cannot keep up Sharnikya).

Nope, no tears posted on social media but that doesn’t mean I haven’t cried quite a few times this year (tears of joy and sorrow). I’ve given epic side-eyes this year (no photos please) and of the work being done in the community, less than half of it is posted by me or my #positivepeerpressurepeers on this journey with me.

Skip the highlight reels. Write your own inspirational quote. Scroll through your life - reflecting on God’s blessings and mercies.

TWEET IT!!

So as this year comes to a close, spend some time with you. Skip the highlight reels. Write your own inspirational quote. Scroll through your life - reflecting on God’s blessings and mercies (they are new every morning), thanking HIM for the blessings you’ve prayed for and those He threw in because He’s G.

Beyonce did what?

Beyoncé performed earlier this week at the Country Music Awards (CMAs), I didn’t see the performance but heard about it on the radio. My initial thought was “What in the world is she doing at a country music award show?” I don’t know Bey personally [obviously] but it’s no secret that she makes bold and strategic moves to stay in formation, share her brand, and reach new audiences.

Well, I think we have to be willing to do the same in our personal lives. For some of us, it may mean joining professional groups or attending events that fall outside of our expertise in order to meet new people and introduce them to the work we do or simply to engage with others who can offer a different perspective. 

And this doesn’t just apply to our professional lives. As Christians our goal is to mature and develop the characteristics of Jesus Christ, become disciples (one who whole-heartedly seeks to follow the life and example of Jesus), and make disciples. Discipleship doesn’t happen overnight but we start by sharing the “brand” of Jesus Christ with not only believers but non-believers as well. So, just as we attend women’s empowerment brunches, conferences, etc. to share our brand, product offerings, services, etc., we must be just as diligent about sharing the word of God with those who don’t know Him well or don’t know Him at all. It doesn’t necessarily mean passing out tracts (small pamphlets used for religious purposes), as we are often presented with unique opportunities to share through conversation, service, etc. Pay attention and act on those moments that God graciously gives you to tell others about Him.

How will you share the brand of Jesus Christ today?

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age 1  Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT)