This came across my email this week as quote of the week from someone. I
almost automatically deleted, then, wait a minute! I read it again, and
thought, this is the cheer for those who want MORE! This is the mantra of
Win/Win! This is the belief that I want personally to be guiding my choice
making.
When I get to a place where things are “good” I have a tendency to self congratulate.
“Wow, Pat, you have worked hard! Now sit down and rest and
give yourself a break!” Good is so comfortable, especially after years of feeling
miserable, depressed, angry, or rejected. Good is like heaven!
But wait! Can accepting ‘good’ become a comfort zone in itself? I believe it
can if we settle into it like a comfy couch and begin to let life happen without
our thought or input.
I’m not saying that we should not enjoy the results of our efforts. I am not
saying that we should not celebrate! It is important to take stock, acknowledge
our growth, and take care of ourselves by resting and celebrating!
However if we truly want to experience excellence in our lives, “good
enough” may not get us there.
I believe that most of us equal excellence with a level of discomfort. For
example, if I want to weigh 150 pounds, I am going to have to change my
choices about eating and exercise. This simple desire on my part will tear me
out of my comfortable place where I’m feeling pretty good! And I will have
to THINK! OFTEN! About what my commitment is and what actions
it requires. UNCOMFORTABLE!
How do I get the results that I want? I first know what results I want. I make
a mark each day on the Excellence Elevator. Any discomfort that I experience
I count as an indicator that I am ever closer to reaching my new goal.
And I begin to understand that the idea of discomfort is a JUDGMENT rather
than a reality. If the Result I want is important enough, then the action I
take to achieve it is not discomfort. It is merely a step toward EXCELLENCE!
~ Pat Hardesty
