Stopping the “Had To”
What a week! I felt drained and exhausted. All week I was attending to those things that I “had to” do. By the time Friday came, it was a real struggle to keep going. My work was not complete. Saturday rolled on. Another morning meeting that I “had to” attend. Then the afternoon finalizing essential writings that “had to” be submitted that day.
There was nothing left.
I finally stopped and reviewed the week, “Why was I so exhausted?” I couldn’t comprehend. I didn’t feel that I had achieved much. The writing, the projects that I wanted to do, weren’t touched. These are the things that fill my soul with joy, yet, I hadn’t found time for them. The “had to” took priority.
In the moments of reflection, I remembered. I had spent the week doing the things that I am not designed to do. These are the things that I need to be hand to someone else to do.
My friend and mentor, Heather Joy Bassett, constantly reminds me that I need only to do the things that bring me joy. The work that is set out for me in my life keep me going. These are the things that inspire me, and when I focus on them, I inspire others. Only then can I be an Authentic Influence.
There are many different tools available to help us understand what we are designed to do. Tools that unlock the secret of who you are and guide you on the journey. However, take a moment to connect with the soul of who you are. What is it in your work life that brings you the most joy? When you’re feeling low, what is it that will get you out of bed and have you in the excitement zone, with “I don’t want to miss this!”
Each of us has something different that we are designed to do. Take some time to connect with this. Hand over the “had to” to someone else and focus on the “want to.” This is where you will have your Ultimate Impact on the world.
Andrea Putting is a Speaker, Author and Trusted Advisor in Authentic Influence. She guides leaders to achieve a powerful, strong, loyal team and community by building a Social Mission to have authentic influence and unleash their ultimate impact on the world. Connect with her now