“What we do not understand can be frightening.
Yes it can be. But when one is troubled by the reality of this world, it can be comforting to consider other possibilities. Even if those possibilities disturb us, so strong is the desire to escape the tyranny of consciousness and the narrow boundaries of our perceptions. To unlock the prisons of thought in which we trap ourselves all in the hope that a better world or a better version of ourselves, perhaps, may lie on the other side of the door.”
Nobusuke Tagomi
The Man in the High Castle
We find ourselves in a unique time in history. There has been significant and rapid change all around us. Many are struggling, trying to understand their own experience of the changes and then questioning what to do about it. Others are fighting back and creating grass root efforts to demonstrate and let their loud voices be heard. Others are quietly in the background, worrying. Others are cowering in fear, afraid of what the present and future holds. Still others are celebrating and believe that the current political agenda is finally correcting course. No one is right or wrong in his and her beliefs. One of the reasons we live in this great country is that we can have our unique beliefs and have the right to feel and express them. I do wish we could do so with a greater respect for the diversity of opinions, agree to disagree, dislike the belief but not the believer, but our level of professionalism, civility and respect has greatly diminished in our civil discourse and in our politics.
I’m currently watching the Amazon Prime show – The Man in the High Castle loosely based on Philip K. Dick’s novel of the same name. The premise to the story is that Japan and Nazi Germany won World War II and now occupy the United States. It’s a very challenging show to watch right now as I see similar civil liberty violations, violence and tyranny around the world, and too close to home. However, it’s also hopeful as a dedicated band of a fearless resistance risk their lives to fight for freedom at all costs. Sound familiar?
The United States has always had challenges – it is how our country was born. Nothing easy is worth fighting for, and America has lived up to that motto since its inception. We take a stand for what we believe in. The bigger the challenge, the higher we rise. Which is also how we’ve accomplished so much since our birth.
So how do you take a stand for what you believe? That’s the question that seems to be tying many people up in knots. Not everyone is wired to be a demonstrator, yet I understand the need and desire to take relevant, meaningful action and be heard. So what is the answer? I believe the best action you can take is that which is authentic to you.
Find your authentic voice and use it.
Use your skills and talents to the best of your abilities.
Be on purpose.
This is how you take a stand for what you believe in – you show up as the best version of yourself. Each of us was born with a unique skill set that no one else has. Importantly, there are people waiting for your unique skills; people that need you. If you don’t step into your purpose and share your gifts, skills and talents, then someone out there is not going to receive the help they need from you. You will likely never know who you left stranded, but I promise you, someone is missing something that only you can provide. I want you to think long and hard on that reality.
Have you heard the saying, “Where focus goes, energy flows”? That which we focus on expands. If you spend your time focusing on your obstacles, challenges and negativity, you will receive more of the same. If you want to change your life, then you need to change your thoughts. Regardless of your external circumstances, you must choose to keep your steadfast focus on the result you want, your desired outcome, and then take action that is authentic and congruent to that outcome. This takes practice, discipline and courage and the results are worth it.
If you have the courage to be on purpose and use your skills and talents to the best of your abilities, while keeping your eye on the prize, well, that’s what America is all about. That’s how we formed this great country. And that’s how we’ll keep it great.
If you have concerns about the presidency, I can assure you that the President is not going to change. He is keeping his laser focus on his goals and accomplishing them with record speed, which is what I’m recommending you do. This is one place you can take a play from his play book – maintain a similar commitment and focus on your goals and accomplish them with equal speed and zeal.
He won’t back down. Which means we have to stand up. Rise strong. This is your life. Live it to win with your standards, values, morals, and integrity. Have the courage to be seen as the brilliant, talented person you are.
That’s how we make a difference.
My entire life has been in the pursuit of what stirs my heart, daring to follow it and having the unstoppable conviction to achieve it. Purpose, passion and values aligned to create my path while audacity nudged my courage to help me excel at taking on big change to go after it.
I am here to help you find your way and learn how to confidently use your authentic voice, unlock your potential and courageously build a purposeful life you love!
Carpe Diem!
Well written Joan. Just helped put on a conference here in Cincinnati where we shared these truths with our participants. We are in the process of taking this across the country to assist others in making better versions of themselves.
Thanks Randy. This is such an important message right now. I’d love to hear more about your conference. Do you have a link you can share? I know you live all these principles – thanks for making a differing. Keep Shining!