Leading by example

So, as some of you may know, I am a firm believer on leading by example.  If you want to be a leader, then show it.  Practice what you preach.  That's what is getting me through today... Today I'm taking my own advice.

Today my family suffered some setbacks, and it would have been very easy to focus on those, and indeed, I started down that path.  I began choking on the anxiety of all the horrible things that never go right.  I began looking at things as a burden, as things that pull my resources (in all manner of the word).  I began to feel overwhelmed, overburdened and exhausted.  I know a lot of my friends feel that way on a regular basis as well.

Instead of allowing myself to continue on that terrible train of negativity, I stopped.  I took a deep breath.  I acknowledged what I was feeling as valid, but negative, and allowed myself to feel it, then worked on letting it go.  I connected with myself and asked myself what advice I would give a friend who is feeling the same way.  I didn't have to look very far for the answer.

I, again, validated my feelings and then acknowledged them for the negative things they are (realizing that they would be showing me life through a negative lens, showing me all the blessings in my life as burdens).  I showed them the door.

I began to look at life through my lenses of positivity.  I saw the smile of my partner, the love of my life.  I saw the smile of my son, the exuberance of a child at play.  I saw the smile of my daughter (whom I don't view as a step-anything), full of creativity and inspiration.  I saw in those things, not a burden on my person, but a reflection of my positive influence.  I saw love. I saw trust.

It helped, and so I thought it important to share this with you, because anyone can sound like an awesome guru of positive right action when things are going well.  It's when things are starting to go pear-shaped that those convictions are put to the test.

So, long story short (I know, too late... also known as the too long didn't read version): It's easy to view the things in your life as burdens when you encounter obstacles or setbacks.  Recognize your feelings are valid, even the negative ones, and then let them go.  Look for the beauty and good in those things, and it will help banish the habit of viewing the world in a negative light.

It will not only help you survive, but thrive.

As always, thanks for reading and thanks for your support.

~Stephan

Addicta, septies, ut resurgat octo.