Most of us can relate to the fact that no matter how much positive feedback we hear, we fixate on moments that are less affirming. I had one of these moments last week. I was in a funk and decided to do something brave to give myself the jolt of adrenaline I needed to get back to work.
My husband recently told me about the #proximityprinciple from @kencoleman. With that strategy in mind, I emailed a woman who I met through a writing retreat and asked if she’d be willing to speak to me on the phone or whether I could shadow/assist her as she plans her next retreat. I even offered to clean toilets!
She said no, because it would be impossible to convey what she’s learned over twenty years.
And she called me Sharon.
I shouldn’t have taken it personally, but I did.
I started having an imaginary conversation with her during which I explained all of the experiences and personal encounters of the last twenty years that have prepared me for this new endeavor. I gave her my credentials: degrees, certifications, work history, and platform. I gave evidence of my work ethic and my heart for teachers.
By the time I imaginary hung up the phone, I had pumped myself up! I could see a path of stepping stones laid out over YEARS that have brought me to this new season.
It’s important to listen to people who are further down the road you’re trying to walk. Wise counsel is essential to developing your own wisdom. But don’t give a stranger’s acceptance or rejection of your dream more weight than it’s worth. Listen to wise people who know you and have proven themselves worthy of your attention by being honest in your highs and lows.