Almost everything I set my mind to accomplish, I succeeded; the problem was everything I set my mind to accomplish, I succeeded. I chased after people, places and things that did not reflect God’s best for me.

How do I know it wasn’t God’s best? There was no joy.  Always miserable, I looked outside of myself for validation, making sure everyone else was okay, and always feeling guilty for not doing or being enough.

So I chased after things I thought would make me feel good, look good—never stopping to do the one thing that was necessary if I wanted to live true to me, to my values, what was really important.

Anytime you live outside of your core values—the things that reflect who you are–your behavior runs contrary to them as you maneuver through life stressed out, anxiety filled, and in chaos because of the constant internal conflict.

 I lived this way for many years. When I finally crashed and burned—because at some point you can’t keep all those plates spinning—I became willing to get honest about who I was, what mattered.

What a relief to finally be free from OPP (other people’s plans) and my own worn out beliefs/behaviors that kept me from my dreams and plans for a fulfilled life. I didn’t do this alone. I had to reach out for help from the women who mentored and coached me, guiding me on the path, encouraging me to take the actions to make the changes critical to a new way of living.

Does this resonate with you? Are you just coping, dealing with life, or settling for whatever the day brings? Do you feel like you have no control over your future?

I encourage you today to take some time to evaluate where you are right here, right now. Be honest with yourself—this is the beginning.

The journey to the real “me” forced me to make some tough decisions for a life of peace and truth, and it’s all been worth it. And, you’re worth it too!

I appreciate hearing  your thoughts and comments.