I want to remind you that you were created to win! You may experience some setbacks and storms, but defeat does not have to know your name unless you choose to live there. Winning doesn’t just happen, though; you have to plan for it. Today, I challenge you to consider these questions as you set goals and vision for your life.
What are you prioritizing?
Have you ever gotten so busy putting out little fires that you don’t get to check anything off your to-do list? As women, this is quite an easy thing to do. Somebody forgot their lunchbox, a friend calls and you spend two hours counseling her—by the time you look up, the day is over and nothing you’ve done has moved you closer to your goals. Taking care of everyone else’s business can cause you to neglect your own. It may seem difficult, but I challenge you to prioritize your life. You’ve got to know what matters, know what to value, and recognize what things are truly important. Knowing what to do and when will be much easier as you filter your daily activities through your priorities.
How are you recharging and nourishing your soul?
You do not belong on the back burner of your own life! I hate to be the one to break it to you, but you, in fact, are not Superwoman—you need to take a minute to relax and feed your own spirit. Carving out quiet time allows me to organize my thoughts and dream a little. Just like not taking time to clean your house will result in it becoming cluttered, the same is true of your mind, leaving you tired and feeling purposeless. You can’t get so caught up in the daily obligations that you miss out on the little refreshing moments right before you.
Who are you allowing to be in your space?
You must be strategic in whom you allow access to you because their thoughts, words, and deeds will influence you. Boundaries are necessary! How can you know your own thoughts when everyone else’s voice clouds over your head? How can you hear God’s voice when you’re never still? Become your own bodyguard; put checks and blocks in place (such as with which phone calls you choose to answer) and choose to surround yourself with like-minded people who will help propel you forward.
What’s stopping you?
It’s time out for excuses! If you want to see a change in your life, you must take the initiative to make it happen. First, that means giving yourself permission to dream again. Many times, the person stopping you is you. So, what is it going to take for you to move forward? Will it be receiving some wise counsel? Reading a book on finances? Starting with one night class at a time until you finish? Any step forward is a step in the right direction. Even if it’s a small act, work on it and celebrate the small victories until you reach your goal.
You’ve got to control, manage, and get rid of the clutter. Throw it away; get it out of your life. The things that are blocking you—relationships, the power you’re giving someone else over your life, family drama, workplace issues—whatever causes confusion and creates clutter in your life, it’s time for it to go! You’ve got to make room to accomplish what God wants to do in your life. You were born to win! Remember, you’ve got this!
