- Listen to those wiser (and older than you).
I can't tell you how valuable and important this is. I believe that people are brought into your life for a specific reason. I also believe that when you are in your 20s, you are filled with passion, vigor, and wonder as you run (some faster than others) towards the future. There are oftentimes people who are older and wiser than yourself that cross your path. Truly wise mentors enter your life, not to deter you, but to assist you in moving toward your dream/desire. Sometimes, they arrive like a mighty wind and are there just for moment. Other times, they are like the roots in a tree--forever in your life to water, pour, and encourage you along your life. Either way, take the time to listen to them. As difficult as this might seem, you don't know everything. You can't do it all on your own and if you think you can, then you need these people more than you realize. Take the time to welcome them into your life. Trust me, you'll be extremely grateful later on!
- Take time to be still.
This is a word for everyone, but those who are in their 20s and under, have a difficult time with this. Take time to be still--to breathe in the sunshine and the day. Turn off the cell phone. Take a day without Facebook, Twitter, and all social media. Take time to turn off all the technology that sends us spinning. Schedule days that you are intentionally still. Speak stillness and peace into your heart and mind. It is in these moments--the moments that you're still--that you come face to face with yourself and the state of your heart. I know, it can be daunting and challenging. But take the time. In this time, you'll find yourself more comfortable with yourself because it will force you to face things. It will force you to take a look and to have the option to change, smile, move forward, etc. Being still is a blessed gift.
- Don't compare your life's progression to others.
This is a challenge (even as a 30something), but what I've personally discovered is that we are all on a different (and yet the same) track. Some of you have gone to college (or are in college) and will go straight into your professional field. You'll "move up the ladder" and will progress through life happenings early on (i.e. buying a house, getting married, having children, etc). Some of you are already there. And that's great! For some of you, you may decide to go a different route. You may not discover your life/professional calling or obtain it until your 30s or 40s. Life is a progression. Some of you will be single for many years before getting married and setting down roots. And it may go against the grain of your personality completely. Trust me. I know. But refuse to get frustrated. You're not out of the loop. Your path is just different. There isn't a direct line/pattern to how life is to be lived. Although, I recommend that it be LIVED FULLY and this means that comparison needs a good kick in the rear. Keep living and...
- Take your battles one at a time.
This leads me to final word of advice today: Tackle your battles/goals one at a time. Look at one and take it on--immediately. Believe that you will overcome and that the battle will be won. But as you're doing this--whether it's a dream of completing graduate school, starting a business, praying for a loved one, beating cancer, etc., don't go in at it alone. Tackle the battle one moment at a time, but never go in it alone. Relationships are good to keep you vulnerable, centered, and accountable. They also keep you from getting overwhelmed in your battle.
So, friends, take courage. Take courage to keep embracing life and may my life lessons be an encouragement to your hearts. Here's to next week as we approach Part 3 of this ever-evolving series! Continued peace and grace to your heart!!
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