We are either defeated or encouraged by our perceptions of personal potential. When faced with a challenge we can either choose to try harder or give up. The middle ground is very limited. And fence-sitting can become very uncomfortable.
The common problem we all have is that life itself is a challenge. If we believe that it can’t be achieved it’s highly unlikely success will result. But if we cling to the notion that the possibilities are worth exploring, that worthwhile and achievable options exist, then there’s every likelihood of reaching a satisfactory conclusion.
The value may lie in simply making the effort. If we give it a shot, if we try, then we can move from where we are to a place that is closer to where we would prefer to be. Enthusiasm and diligence, if sustained, can bring great rewards. We can stretch and grow or choose to stay put and risk disappointment and stagnation.
Personal responsibility is the nub of the matter. No-one can live our lives for us. Ultimately the decisions we make have to be our own. But that means we must accept ownership of the outcomes. There are no winners in the blame game. We have to answer for ourselves.
To that end it’s important for all of us to find our own voice; to know and accept ourselves as we are at any point in time and to accept life as a voyage of self-discovery.
Acceptance brings with it perspective. It allows for the privilege of planning for the future. If we know where we are then it’s easier to see where we are going.
It’s in facing the many challenges that come our way – and accepting the defeats along with the victories while learning from both – that we move closer to achieving our potential; to becoming the best version of ourselves.
Gary Bentley Counselling 