And yet this pernicious idea is floating around social media. It implies the steps to achievement are accidental at worst or a seamless, paint by numbers process at best.
Society does a great job of confusing people on what it takes to be a success.
I find people who fall for this propaganda are detached from reality and become sorely disappointed when this fantasy outcome does not materialize. And then they say almost triumphantly that their goals are not possible for them.
Life will never be exactly as we hope for; there will always be challenges, detours, and we must come to terms with that. Things that we don’t plan to happen unexpectedly. Things don’t go as planned, and it’s important to know that we will be okay despite this. The goal is still in sight. Life is a beautiful journey despite the setbacks, failures, trials, and temptations.
Don’t be discouraged when they show up but learn to weather the storm. Things will not go as you expect; keep moving forward, anyway. There will always be something not right in your life. It’s normal to just focus on what you’ve accomplished; your attitude will be better.
I look at it like this.
Once I’m busy focusing on my goals and taking inspired action towards them, I’m not too concerned about the challenges facing me. Yes, I know there are different degrees of challenges, and I also know some will require a hundred percent of your focus. But for our day to day challenges, handle them the best you can and keep your eye on the prize - your goal.
Having faith in today’s world is not as popular as a tool as when I was growing up, but I think it’s on its way back. My mom weathered many a storm with faith, and although my approach is more pragmatic, without it, I wouldn’t be where I am.
I know what my goals are in my head, but not seeing the finish line for real is scary. You just have to trust it’s there and continue to move towards it. This is the key to succeeding in our goals and dreams. We must develop the discipline to commit to the daily tasks that move us toward our ambitions.
Just keep moving.
Faith is about believing in the unfolding narrative of our lives as we embark on our journey. We don’t really know what’s challenges or obstacles that are around the corner; we just know we can face them.
If we keep the faith, I want to believe we can get there. What I do know as an undeniable fact is we will have grown and gained wisdom. Crawl if you must rest if you must. Take a time out if that is required. Just keep moving.
For me, there is no such thing as giving up. Writing isn’t everything, but without it, I wouldn’t be complete. And I know I share that sentiment with many of you.
Sometimes, what appears as your bleakest hour can turn around and be your defining moment. Work hard and savor the challenges. Plow ahead, knowing success is attainable even if it doesn’t look like it while you’re in the shit and mud, scrambling about in the trenches. Commit to the path, regardless of the journey getting there.
In life, not all roads are lined with gold. Some offer experience in the form of roadblocks and dead-ends. But If you are willing to venture out into the unknown with faith and a plan, I believe dreams can come true.
I hope I'm right.