So, how has your week been? Hopefully one full of excitement and work reaching for those goals. Mine you ask? Well, somewhat routine; and that, my friend, is what I am going to attempt to change–my routine aka my comfort zone.
I previously mentioned I am one who thrives best when there is a routine. I love structure and a plan; but I equally enjoy spontaneity and adventure–go figure that one right?!? If there was or is a category entitled “pre-planned-spontaneous-adventure-that-allows-for-proper-packing-so-participants-are-prepared-for-every-possible-scenario” then sign me up! BUT, that isn’t necessarily what life is all about or what God wants for us. When we are removed from what makes us comfortable or feel safe, we have the potential to do some really impressive growth–spiritual, emotional, physical growth that hopefully makes us into better versions of ourselves. Being better versions of ourselves will hopefully cause a ripple effect, positively impacting those around us; so on and so forth.
You may be asking yourself, “okay Erin where are you going with this?” I am so glad you asked–well sort of because now I have to show my hand. I have also said that in order for one to be successful in whatever area you’re tying to better you have to be held accountable. Well, how are you to be held accountable IF no one knows what it is you’re working towards? There is some level of security when only you knows the ultimate goal. Security for if you were to fall short, only you knows. That is a much easier pill to swallow than if the goal has been vocalized and others have been let in on the secret. The thought of potential failure in front of others definitely lends a hand to vulnerability. BUT how are we to grow into better people if we are not held accountable? And how are we to be held accountable if we do not allow others in on the secret? Makes it rather difficult. Right? I told you from the beginning that this would be a space that may lack a lot of aspects (grammar, correct spelling, etc.), but authenticity wouldn’t be one of them. So, I am going to ask you all to help me be accountable.
Beginning tomorrow (Monday 2/27) I am going to engage in a 3 week mini prep. Why a mini prep? Well, I haven’t been on a true prep plan since I last competed–which feels like a zillion years ago. I have been blessed with the ability to help others prepare for their competitions and that is a responsibility I do not take lightly–I feel humbled and honored when someone asks if I would help them reach their goal of taking the stage. Whenever it gets closer to their taking the stage however, my inner competitor begins to burn deep in the belly. So, my competitive self is curious if I can do it.
Why only 3 weeks? Well, in about 3 weeks time I will be making my way back across the pond to “The Big O”, and join with friends to celebrate some milestone birthdays. This gives me a realistic time frame to challenge and push myself towards a goal that has a date. When we set goals, if they’re too ambiguous often times we will find it more difficult to reach them. No firm deadline, no firm push to work. However, upon hitting the 3wk mark that doesn’t mean all hard work and new habits goes out the window–just means I need to set a new goal. 😉
Why now? Well, the vain side of me–yes I said it honey, which I think we all have to a degree–doesn’t want to look like a busted up can of biscuits when seeing folks I’ve not seen in a hot minute. The other reason is two fold. On one hand it’s setting the example to my daughter that when you decide to do ‘x’, you work hard and diligently to achieve whatever ‘x’ is; that hard work and determination is what it takes to make it to the next level. I think often times folks feel that life should be handed to you on a silver platter and that is just not how it works. You want to get to the next step? Get that promotion? Earn the degree? Get the scholarship? Make the team? Write the next great American novel? Well, darlin’, you best put your head down and work hard. That goes for me too. The other part is kinda scary because it’s going to leave me super vulnerable and go against my Type A siding self.
The other part is showing myself that with God’s guidance and reassurance, these next 3 weeks will open my eyes to what He wants me to become. In the book, “Made to Crave” the author referred to her New Year’s Resolution prayer, “I need God to unsettle me.” This has resonated with me so much since I read that because I too need to be unsettled. “Unsettle me in the best kind of way. For when I allow Your touch to reach the deepest part of me-dark and dingy and hidden away too long–suddenly, a fresh wind of life twists and twirls and dances through my soul.” She continues by saying, “Goodbye to my remnants, my rationalizations, shards, and tendencies. This is not who I am nor who I was created to be…I am an unsettled woman who no longer wishes to take part in your distractions or destructions.” While I am really nervous and kinda scared as to what challenges will face me over these next 3 weeks; I am equally fired up and what I’ll learn and possibly overcome.
That all being said, I can’t do this alone. We were not meant to do life alone, so here we go ya’ll…will you hold me accountable? Maybe even join up with me and ask to be unsettled?
Until next time…..
-E
Faith Family Fitness 